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What is cash on delivery and how does it work?

Cash on delivery (COD) means you pay when the parcel arrives instead of paying online first. It lowers the risk for the buyer, and it asks more of the seller. Here is how it works from both sides.

Written by the Seezup team · Reviewed 9 November 2026 · Explainers ·

In shortThe shop sends the parcel, the courier brings it, you check it, and you pay the rider in cash. If the parcel is wrong or damaged you do not accept it and you pay nothing.

In detail

  1. The buyer ordersYou choose the item and give your name, phone number and address. You do not pay yet.
  2. The seller confirms and sendsThe shop confirms the order, packs it and gives it to a courier. A good shop sends you an order number.
  3. The courier deliversThe rider brings the parcel to your address and asks for the amount on the order, in cash.
  4. The buyer checks, then paysIf the seller allows it, you open the parcel and check it before paying. See the checklist for the ten things to look at.
  5. If something is wrongDo not accept the parcel. Tell the rider and message the seller the same day, with a photo or video.
  6. The seller receives the moneyThe courier passes the cash to the seller, usually after a few days. This is why a seller needs to plan for cash flow.

Where Seezup stands

Delivery is free, you open and check the parcel before you pay, and you have 7 days to test the item. See how ordering works.

Next: the 10-step parcel checklist and 10 questions to ask a shop.

Questions

Is cash on delivery safer for the buyer?Usually yes, because you do not pay before you have the parcel. It is safest when you are also allowed to check the parcel before paying.
Why do some shops charge extra for it?Because the courier handles the cash. Ask before you order whether there is any fee.

Sources and how this page is kept up to date

  • Delivery, payment and testing details are read from Seezup’s own published terms (how ordering works, returns) on the date shown.

Reviewed 9 November 2026. If a rule changes, this page changes with it. To correct something, use the contact page.

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