Let us assure you that more than 97% of parcels are delivered successfully across the world every year. In the unlikely event that your parcel is lost in transit, there is a small chance of still getting it delivered safe and sound. However, do you know what actually happens to your lost post? Or do you know what to do when you’re missing post? Here’s what you need to know.
Missing Parcels
There are several reasons why your parcel may go missing. More often than not, missing post or a missing parcel is the result of a parcel’s shipping label being damaged or concealed during transit. If the courier is unable to read the delivery address, it is impossible to identify its desired destination, which is why it is vital to ensure your parcel delivery label is secured onto the box using strong parcel tape. However, your parcel may go missing for other reasons, including if they are incorrectly addressed or due to an easily made administrative error.
Finding A Lost Parcel
It may feel like the end of the world when you are missing post, but it can be found. If your parcel has gone walkabouts, simply make your claim within 30 days of the collection date. The earlier you make this initial claim, the better! Before you do though, identify when your parcel was due to arrive, and factor in the knock-on effect bank holidays could have to parcel delivery across the UK and even internationally. Providing you have acknowledged these facts, your courier will start a thorough search of all their warehouses and hubs, and will do their best to locate your missing parcel. If your parcel is found, it will be delivered to you, or alternatively, returned to the sender.
How Do Couriers Find Lost Parcels?
As soon as a missing parcel is reported, the parcel carrier will begin a search from the last depot where the lost post was scanned. It may surprise you to learn that during this process hundreds, if not thousands, of packages of all shapes and sizes are sorted and investigated. It is most definitely a lengthy process, which is why all investigations take a minimum of 7 days. If the missing parcel has not been found 10 days later, it will be deemed lost.
What Happens If My Parcel Isn’t Found?
Unfortunately, sometimes it’s not possible to be certain that the parcel found is the correct parcel, if it is found at all. However, the good news is that, lost post isn’t left to decay in the depths of depots and warehouses alike. After a period of time, they will be collected and disposed of in one of two ways. While some carriers auction off lost goods, others take the approach of sharing what is lost between members of staff, but don’t fret! This is very much the exception. Most of the time, your parcel will arrive at its desired destination safe and sound, and will be delivered without a problem. If you do encounter an issue though, you can read about our refund policy here.
