Bpost introduces new system to stop parcel theft

Belgium’s postal service Bpost has launched a new system to combat parcel fraud, to ensure parcels are delivered to the right person.

Under the new system, anyone wanting to receive a package will have to show a special six-digit code or QR to the delivery driver. Without this, the parcel will go back to the post office or parcel depot, and the buyer will have to collect it later, showing the code.

The system only applies to parcels sent by certain online sales platforms that have chosen to use this “Secure Delivery” product, paying €1 more than for the normal delivery service. Currently only a few sales platforms, including Zalando, use this secure system, but other companies are said to be interested.

“Over the years, we noticed fraud in the delivery of some parcels,” said Bpost spokeswoman Laura Cerrada Crespo.

“Organised gangs had found a system that allowed them to have parcels delivered to specific collection points and then bill them to someone else, customers who, of course, claimed not to have received the parcel and therefore didn’t pay as it was not theirs.”

Companies wishing to avoid this setback for more expensive items can choose the new “Secure Delivery” option. However, Cerrada Crespo said that even without this system, more than 99% of parcels arrive safely.

On its website, Bpost claims it is the only service that ships and sends parcels three ways: with delivery possible to an address, to one of more than 2,000 pick-up points or to 300 parcel lockers.

Standard delivery of parcels up to 30kg costs from €5.15 (€6.65 with a guarantee) and the expected delivery time is the next working day.