Parcel delivery unsuccessful - what's next?

What happens if the delivery of your parcel wasn't successful? 

If the courier driver has attempted to deliver your parcel three times without being successful, it will be held in the local depot. It is important to keep in mind that this practice may differ depending on the country your sending to and on the carrier transporting your shipment.

Normally you should receive a notification card from the driver telling you to contact the depot, arrange to go there and collect your shipment. 

What's next though?

First of all, don't panic! If you forgot to collect your parcel or have not received a notification card, you can still get it back.

Tip: Keep hold of your tracking number and the contact details of your courier / carrier, so you will able to ring them personally and ask where to collect your parcel from. Before sending anything, make sure to check the collection and delivery times for your courier service.

Your parcel(s) will be put into storage at your carrier's local depot for an average time of 3 to 14 days.

Image c/o DHL

Should you fail to collect your parcel(s) within this time period, they may be processed for a return back to the sender - who may liable to pay for any additional surcharges.

In worst case scenario, your shipment may be abandoned.