You usually do not need a perfect “proof” that you did not steal anything. What matters is showing that the parcel arrived to you empty, with the packing materials still inside, and that you reported it immediately before the box was altered.
Start by preserving the evidence exactly as you received it.
- Photograph the outside of the box, the shipping label, any seals or tape, and the inside with the padding.
- If the box was already opened when you noticed the problem, take pictures before you move anything else.
- Keep the box, fillers, labels, and any extra tape in one piece. Do not throw away the packaging.
- If you can, make a short video while showing the empty interior and the label in the same shot.
The most useful details are the ones that show the parcel’s condition on arrival. A box that is intact but contains only padding points to a missing-item claim. A box that looks cut, re-taped, crushed, or resealed may also involve the carrier, because the issue could have happened in transit.
Then report it in writing to the seller or marketplace, using precise wording such as: “I received the parcel, but the box contained only padding and no item.” Include:
- order number
- tracking number
- delivery date and time
- photos of the box, label, and empty interior
- any damage, broken tape, or customs tape you saw
Ask for a case number and ask what evidence they need next. If they want a carrier report or inspection, ask them to say so in writing. That matters because some disputes are handled by the seller or marketplace, while damage or tampering during transit may need the carrier’s involvement too.
If the tracking says “delivered” but the box was empty, do not wait to see whether the seller notices on their own. File the claim right away. A delayed report can make it harder to show that the parcel was empty when it reached you.
If the box was visibly damaged, resealed, or had customs opening tape or a customs notice, tell the carrier as well as the seller/platform, because that changes who may need to investigate. If the parcel looked untouched and simply contained padding, your main route is usually the seller or marketplace claim process.
Do not describe the situation as “someone stole from me” unless you have solid evidence. Use neutral wording: “empty box,” “only padding,” “missing contents,” and “packaging kept as received.” That reduces the risk of confusion and keeps the report focused on facts.
If the seller or marketplace does not resolve it, your payment provider may be another route later, but the deadline and procedure depend on the card issuer, bank, or wallet service. Check your payment account for the dispute or chargeback time limit and keep the case number, because you may need the seller’s reply and your photos to support that request.
Practical tip: write the date and time you first noticed the empty box on a note and photograph it next to the parcel; it helps show you reported the problem straight away.
