Courier left package outside and it was stolen - can I get refund?

Short answer If your package was left outside by the courier and subsequently stolen, obtaining a refund may depend on the seller's return policy and the carrier's terms of service. Generally, if the package was marked as delivered, the responsibility may fall on the buyer, but it’s essential to check the specifics of your situation. What to check Review the tracking information to confirm the delivery status. Check the seller's return and refund policy regarding lost or stolen packages. Look for any delivery instructions you provided that may have influenced where the package was left. Contact the carrier to inquire about their policies on packages left outside. Verify whether the package was insured and if insurance covers theft. What to do next Gather all relevant information, including tracking numbers, delivery confirmation, and any communication with the seller or carrier. Contact the seller to report the issue and inquire about their policy on stolen packages. If the seller is unhelpful, reach out to the carrier to file a claim for the stolen package. Provide any required documentation to support your claim, such as proof of purchase and tracking details. Follow up regularly with both the seller and carrier until the issue is resolved. Common pitfalls Assuming the seller or carrier will automatically provide a refund without following proper procedures. Not checking if the package was insured, which could affect your ability to claim compensation. Failing to report the theft promptly, as some carriers have time limits for filing claims. Overlooking the importance of delivery instructions that could impact where the package was left. Pro tip To prevent future thefts, consider using secure delivery options such as requiring a signature upon delivery or having packages sent to a pickup point or locker service.