Package or parcel lost – What to do? Your comprehensive guide
Unfortunately, parcels or packages may not arrive on time for a variety of reasons. While this is annoying, there is no reason to panic, because there are a number of things you can do to help your parcel or package find its way to you. This guide will help you understand what steps to take if your parcel or package is lost.
1. Introduction
A lost package or parcel can occur for a variety of reasons, such as incorrect addressing, damaged packaging or insufficient postage. This is particularly annoying when it comes to important or valuable shipments. Insurance can help cover the damage in many cases.
2. Liability for loss
- If an insured package or parcel goes missing in the mail, the parcel service is liable.
- Uninsured package: Liability depends on the situation; either the recipient or sender.
- Commercial purchase: Liability lies with the seller; you have the right to claim your money back.
- Private purchase: Liability lies with the recipient, provided the private seller can prove the shipment.
3. As a recipient – What to do?
3.1. Package or parcel not received immediately
If your package or parcel is delayed by a few days, there is no need to worry immediately. Possible reasons for a delay are:
Manual processing: due to illegible address information or damaged packaging.
Incorrect storage location: the package may have been placed in a different location.
Delivered to a neighbour: The delivery agent may have left the parcel with a neighbour.
3.2. Using the tracking service
Insured parcel: Use the tracking number to track the status of your parcel online.
Uninsured parcel: Contact the delivery agent by phone and have the following information ready:
Date of dispatch
Sender's details
Recipient's details
3.3. File a search request
If delivery is still delayed, you should file a search request with the parcel service. To do this, you will need your contact details and all known information about the parcel or package. The search can take up to 32 days, depending on the delivery service and the type of shipment.
4. As a sender – What to do?
4.1. Support the recipient
If the recipient contacts you because their parcel or package has not arrived, you can take the following steps:
Check the tracking number: Check the status of the shipment using the tracking number.
File an investigation request: Instruct the parcel service to conduct an investigation, ideally online.
4.2. Clarify liability
Commercial sale: You are liable for the loss and the insurance of the package covers the damage.
Private sale: The recipient is liable for the loss, provided you can prove the shipment.
5. Place a search ad
Use suchen.expert to help you search for your lost package or parcel. Provide the following information:
Type of loss: parcel or package lost or stolen
Location and date of loss: the exact location and time when the package was lost
Description: details about the package or parcel (special features, e.g. size, colour, contents)
Photo: if possible, a picture of the package or parcel
Contact information: your phone number
- Important: Clearly indicate the location of your loss in order to make the search more targeted. A finder's reward can also be motivating.
6. Expand your search
Increase your search efforts by taking the following steps:
- Use platforms: Register with suchen.expert and search for your package or parcel in the ‘found’ category. Also leave a message with the location.
Disseminate information: Share your concern on social media or local forums to get more exposure.
Ask neighbours and acquaintances: Inform your neighbours, friends and family about the loss in case the package was left somewhere.
7. Further measures and points of contact
If your package or parcel is not found despite all your efforts, the following steps may be helpful:
Further investigation: Continue your investigation and contact other branches or offices of the parcel service if necessary.
Check insurance: Check whether your insurance covers the loss or theft of your parcel, especially for valuable or important shipments.
Additional security measures: Make sure that you have blocked or renewed all other important documents that were included in the parcel.
8. Preventative measures to avoid future losses
To avoid future losses, follow these tips:
Secure storage: Keep your parcels in a fixed, secure location, e.g. in a locked letterbox or with a neighbour.
Use tracking: Use shipping options with tracking and insurance, especially for important or valuable parcels.
Address verification: Make sure that the address details are correct and complete before sending a parcel.
Make copies: Make copies of important shipping documents so that you can respond quickly in the event of loss.
Regular checks: Check the status of your shipments online regularly.
9. Conclusion
Losing a package or parcel is annoying and can be financially burdensome, but it doesn't have to be the end of the world. By taking systematic steps and using platforms like suchen.expert, you increase your chances of recovering your shipment. Stay calm, act thoughtfully and use all available resources, including assistance from the parcel delivery service and lost-item search platforms. You can take preventive measures to avoid future losses and increase the security of your shipments.
The information displayed is taken from publicly available sources and was last updated on 25 September 2024. All retrievable content and explanations are non-binding and do not constitute legal advice. The Suchen Expert platform does not guarantee and is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of the published information.
