Proof of Delivery
Proof of delivery (POD) is a carrier record confirming that a package was delivered, typically showing the date, time, and location, and sometimes a photo, GPS point, or recipient signature.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
Proof of delivery decides who wins when a customer says a package never arrived, so it directly affects refund costs and chargeback losses. A delivered scan with a GPS point and photo is stronger than a scan alone, and a recipient signature is strongest. For example, a brand losing 60 item-not-received chargebacks a month at $90 each loses $5,400, plus dispute fees, and requiring a signature on orders over $300 can win many of those disputes. Store proof of delivery with every disputed order in your order system.
Common questions
- How do I get proof of delivery for a package?
- Look up the tracking number on the carrier's site or in your shipping platform, where most carriers offer a downloadable delivery record. Signature details are available only if a signature service was purchased.
- Is a delivered tracking scan enough to win a chargeback?
- Sometimes, but not always. Card issuers often want proof that the package reached the cardholder's verified address, and for high-value orders a signature is much more persuasive than a scan.
- What is the difference between proof of delivery and signature confirmation?
- Proof of delivery is any carrier record that delivery happened, such as a scan, GPS point, or photo. Signature confirmation is a paid option that adds a recipient signature to that record.