Should l send my parcel with a signature request?

[simbaroo*1]

Is it suggested to use signature required postage? I want to ensure my item is received but l also want to keep the cost down. Thanks

[davewil1964]

I suggest YOU actually research the postage options available. Like flat postage, as opposed to calculated, which I referenced in your previous post.

SOD is probably pointless at this time, as AP don't obtain signatures due to COVID.

Given that 3 or your 4 listings are pickup only, what is your concern?

[kopenhagen5]

All parcels have tracking these days so sig will only prevent parcels being safe dropped.

Probably a good idea for higher value items, 200 plus.

[simbaroo*1]

I HAVE been researching the postage options and the info on eBay is ambiguous hence l needed clarification.. Someone has asked if l will post an item so that's why lm looking into it and for future options if you must know Dave.

[shoppingbag* · Accepted solution]

I have all my parcels with signature on delivery, since I discovered that Australia Post will take no responsibility if the item is damaged or stolen. Signature on delivery ensures it is handed to a person or taken back to the Post Office. Many items that are "safe dropped" are not left in a safe place like they are supposed to be, and with Xmas looming and lots of people out of work, the theives may be out in droves. If a parcel is safe dropped and the buyer leaves no feedback, then they can come back at any time in the next 6 months and demand their money back and get it. I do not ask if they have received their parcel for obvious reasons. Ebay is difficult to communicate with at the moment, so another reason to consider signature on delivery. It is true that signatures are not collected, however, the postman signs on behalf of the recipient for the time being due to Covid 19. At $2.95 a parcel, the buyer will still pay for it if they want the item, and many like to be assured of getting their item as well, so it is for their benefit also. 

[shoppingbag*]

Just to correct my post.....It should read....Australia Post will take no responsibility for a parcel once they "safe drop" it.  So if it is stolen or damaged, the Seller will have to refund the Buyer. One of the criteria for "safe dropping" is that it is not in view of the street, so with apartments, they leave many outside the door in full view of other tenants, but not in view of the street. Many others have been left in unsafe places. Christmas always results in parcels being stolen even before Covid 19.

[simbaroo*1]

Thanks that makes good sense. So just to get a rough idea how much does it generally cost you to send parcels under 5kg. I will calculate it myself but just want a rough idea. Thanks again!

[simbaroo*1]

Geez l didn't know you have to refund the buyer if the item is lost or stolen. And what about dodgey buyers?? I'm sure they exist too. So do you do signature request for all your items....even the less expensive ones?

[gillians_gallery]

That’s not true, if tracking shows delivered neither eBay nor PayPal will force you to refund the buyer, that is their loss.

[shoppingbag*]

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@gillians_gallery wrote:
That’s not true, if tracking shows delivered neither eBay nor PayPal will force you to refund the buyer, that is their loss.

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You are wrong, if the parcel is tracked but does not have signature on delivery then you have agreed to the parcel being safe dropped. Do you really think you can say "too bad" to the buyer if it goes missing and get away with it? No doubt it will get you a negative as well. It is the seller's responsibility to get the item delivered, if you have agreed to the safe drop then you are responsible, and I have seen cases where the seller has had to refund in these circumstances. Ebay will make sure the buyer is refunded have no doubt, and it will come out of your pocket. I am posting the article from Australia Post's website here regarding safe dropping. Take note of the section I have highlighted with a red box.