COD Order Cancellations Hurt Small Sellers

Dear Sir,
Cash-on-delivery (COD) has helped many small online sellers in Bangladesh attract customers who are reluctant to pay in advance. However, some customers order products and later refuse delivery or become unreachable when the delivery rider calls.

While a few failed deliveries may not significantly affect large companies, they can be costly for small Facebook and Instagram businesses. Sellers may have to bear delivery and return charges, while also losing time on packaging and communication. For home-based businesses with limited capital, repeated cancellations can quickly reduce profits.

Customers should understand that placing an order comes with responsibility. If they change their minds, they should inform the seller before dispatch instead of ignoring calls. Sellers, meanwhile, can reduce such losses by verifying orders, clearly stating delivery terms and keeping records of customers who repeatedly place false orders.

As online businesses create opportunities for many young people, greater customer responsibility and better order management can make COD fairer and safer. Such cooperation can help build a healthier online marketplace without unnecessary losses.