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Proof of delivery (POD): what it is and why the seller needs it

Proof of delivery, or POD, is the record confirming a parcel was delivered: signature, name of the recipient, photo, date, time and the courier's location.

It is the document that closes the shipment. For the seller it is the defence against a "never received it" claim on the marketplace, and for the marketplace it is the condition for releasing payment.

Proof with photo and geolocation is now the standard in e-commerce; paper signatures remain for high-value shipments.

Shipping with MailAmericas

How Proof of delivery works in our operation

MailAmericas' delivery app records proof of delivery with photo, geolocation and time, and makes it available in the tracking and in the seller's panel. It is the evidence presented to the marketplace in case of a dispute.

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Frequently asked question

How do I access the proof of delivery for a shipment?

From the parcel's tracking, in the delivery event, or from the seller account panel.

Related terms

More from Last mile

Last mileThe last mile is the final leg of a shipment, from the distribution centre in the destination country to the buyer's door, and it is usually the most expensive leg and the one that most defines the delivery experience.Own networkAn own last-mile network is a delivery operation with the operator's own staff, vehicles, distribution centres and systems, instead of subcontracting delivery to a local postal service or carrier.Failed deliveryA failed delivery is a delivery attempt that does not end with the parcel in the buyer's hands, because of absence, a wrong address, refusal of the parcel or no access.Redelivery attemptA redelivery attempt is a new visit to the buyer's address after a failed attempt, scheduled by the operator automatically or at the buyer's request.Pickup pointA pickup point is a shop or branch where the buyer collects their parcel instead of receiving it at home, within a defined period.CoverageCoverage is the set of areas (countries, cities, postal codes) an operator can deliver to, with the lead time and rate that apply to each.

See all 8 terms in Last mile →

Selling to Latin America?

We explain how a cross-border shipment with MailAmericas works for your origin and your destinations.

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