Dispute & Resolution GuideCanadian Carrier Claims & Trace Protocols

Delivery Exception & Claims Assistant

What to do when a parcel is marked delivered but missing, stuck in transit, damaged, or held by customs. Lookup official filing deadlines and claim document checklists.

1. What went wrong with your package?

Marked Delivered but Package is Not Found

The tracking status shows 'Delivered' or 'Item successfully delivered', but you do not have the package.

Tracking Stuck with No Updates for 5+ Days

The package is 'In Transit' with no new scan events recorded for several consecutive days.

Package Arrived Damaged or Broken

The box or container is crushed, torn, wet, or the internal merchandise inside is damaged.

Package Held in Customs / CBSA Review

Status shows 'Held by Customs', 'Presented to Customs', or 'Undergoing Import Assessment'.

Marked Delivered but Package is Not Found

Claim Timeline: Wait 24 to 48 hours from the timestamp of the delivery scan before initiating a carrier trace.
1

Check all secure drop locations & community mailboxes

Drivers frequently place items inside a side porch, behind planters, in the garage, or in a communal parcel locker (check your mailbox for a key).

2

Check with household members & immediate neighbors

Over 40% of missing delivery reports are parcels accepted by a building concierge, neighbor, or family member.

3

Wait 24 hours for premature 'pre-scans'

Some carriers (especially during peak rush) scan a batch as 'Delivered' when the driver begins the street route, even if the parcel is dropped off several hours later.

4

Contact the merchant / shipper

If 24 hours have passed, notify the seller so they can initiate a formal trace with the carrier on your behalf.

2. Carrier-Specific Claim Policy & Deadlines

Select your carrier to view official requirements.

Filing party: Sender only

Canada Post Claims Policy

Included liability coverage: $100.00 CAD (unless higher declared value purchased).

Lost Parcel Deadline90 Daysfrom ship date
Damage Notification90 Daysfrom delivery scan
Service Delay Guarantee30 Daysfrom arrival

Required Documentation Checklist

Original sales receipt / invoice demonstrating the replacement value of the goods (excluding profit margin)
Proof of shipping / tracking number receipt
For damage claims: clear photos of the outer shipping box, shipping label, internal packaging (bubble wrap/void fill), and damaged items
Written confirmation from recipient that package was not received

Expert Resolution Advice for Canada Post

  • 💡If you are the recipient/buyer, contact the merchant/seller directly: Canada Post only reimburses the party who purchased the postage label.
  • 💡Canada Post service guarantees (on-time delivery refunds) require filing within 30 calendar days of delivery.
  • 💡Do NOT discard the damaged shipping box or packaging materials; Canada Post may request an inspection at the local postal depot.
Claims Support Line: 1-866-607-6301 (Consumers) / 1-877-262-5762 (Business)Standard investigation takes 5 to 15 business days. Payout cheque or electronic account credit issued upon approval.