A parcel you expected did not arrive or cannot be found. That can feel confusing and frustrating. There are sensible first steps you can take to learn more and keep options open.

Why This Situation Matters

A missing parcel can cause extra time and hassle. It may delay plans or require you to chase refunds or replacements. Checking the situation early can reduce disruption and make follow-up easier.

What to Do Immediately

1. Check tracking information — Look at the carrier tracking page or the seller’s order page for the latest status and any delivery notes.
2. Look around common spots — Check porches, side doors, garages, backyards, and any designated delivery places near your home.
3. Ask nearby people — Check with household members, neighbors, building staff, or reception who may have accepted the parcel for you.
4. Review delivery messages — Check emails, text alerts, or delivery photos that may show where the item was left or who signed for it.
5. Wait a short time — Sometimes tracking updates arrive later or a neighbor may bring the parcel back. Waiting a few hours can often clear up the situation.

Things to Avoid

• Assuming theft — Don’t jump to conclusions before you check other possibilities.
• Posting accusations publicly — Avoid naming or shaming others on social media before you have clear facts.
• Forcing entry or changing locks — Don’t try to open shared areas or alter security yourself.
• Chasing unknown people — Avoid confronting strangers about a missing delivery.
• Throwing away proof — Don’t discard order confirmations, tracking info, or delivery notices you may need later.

What to Do Next

Keep monitoring tracking and any delivery messages for updates. Contact the seller or marketplace to let them know the parcel is missing and ask about their process. Reach out to the carrier’s customer support to report the issue and ask about next steps or a claim. Save order numbers, screenshots, timestamps, and any photos that show the situation. If you have home camera footage or a doorbell video, check it calmly for relevant timestamps you can share.

When to Get Help

Help may be appropriate if the parcel still cannot be found after you’ve checked and reported the issue. You may want to contact the carrier’s claims or support team, the seller or retailer, or your payment provider about buyer protection options. If you suspect a crime or feel unsafe, you may consider contacting local non-emergency police or building management for advice. Help can also be useful if the situation repeats or affects an important or high-value item.

Quick Summary

• Check tracking, delivery messages, and common drop spots first.
• Ask neighbors or building staff before assuming the worst.
• Keep order details and any photos or messages for follow-up.
• Contact the seller or carrier if the parcel does not appear after a reasonable check.

About the Author

Situation Guide Editorial Team

The Situation Guide editorial team writes clear, practical guides for common real-world situations. Content focuses on safe first steps, plain-language explanations, and helping readers recognise when professional help may be appropriate. This guide provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised professional advice. Specific circumstances can vary.