Delivery release permission: smart or not?
It seems so easy: you’re not home and the delivery person offers to simply leave your package somewhere. Behind the shed, in the front yard, with the neighbors, or even behind the fence. Many carriers call this “delivery release permission.” But did you know that you are actually giving up all your rights by doing this?
In this blog, we explain exactly what delivery release permission is, why carriers offer it, and why we at All Day Led advise never to use this option.
What exactly is delivery release permission?
Some carriers, such as PostNL, DPD, or DHL, offer customers the option to give a “delivery release permission.” This means that you give permission to deliver the package without a signature or presence at a location you specify. The delivery person may, for example,:
- Leave it at the front door or back door,
- Place it in the garden or shed,
- Or deliver it to the neighbors.
Sounds convenient, especially if you are often not at home. But… there is a big risk involved.
Who is liable for damage or loss?
As soon as you give delivery release permission, the responsibility no longer lies with the webshop or the carrier, but entirely with you as the recipient.
This means that any problems are at your own risk, including:
- The package getting lost or disappearing
- Theft after the delivery person has left it
- Damage during transport or after being left
- Damage due to weather conditions such as rain, heat, or frost
- Incorrect placement by the delivery person
The carrier can prove that they left the package according to your instructions. From that moment on, any liability with both the carrier and the webshop expires.
In other words: if you opt for delivery release permission, you waive your right to a guarantee in the event of loss or damage.
What does this mean for you as a customer?
At All Day Led, we do everything we can to deliver packages safely and neatly. Yet, we notice that more and more customers are setting up a delivery release permission via the delivery service. We understand that convenience plays a role, but it can have major consequences if things go wrong.
Therefore, our advice:
Do not use delivery release permission upon delivery. Rather have the package offered again or have it delivered to a collection point.
This way, the package remains traceable, insured, and your rights are protected.
Frequently asked question: “But the delivery person says it’s my choice?”
That’s right, carriers promote this option because it is faster and easier for them. But what is not mentioned: as soon as you opt for delivery release permission, the carrier no longer takes any responsibility.
We, as a webshop, cannot submit a claim to the carrier in that case. The liability then lies entirely with the recipient.
In summary:
| Situation | Who is liable? |
| Normal delivery with signature | Webshop/carrier |
| Package damaged during transport | Consumer |
| Package lost after delivery release permission | Consumer |
| Package stolen after delivery release permission | Consumer |
Our advice
Always opt for personal delivery or, if there is no other option, have the package delivered to a collection point. This way, you can be sure that your order arrives as it should: complete, undamaged, and without risk.
Want to know more?
Do you want to know exactly how we handle shipping, packages, and returns?
On our shipping and return page, we explain everything clearly and transparently, so you know exactly where you stand.
