February 20, 2024

Signing with reserve for shipment delivery

A detailed guide to safeguard your interests

Signing with reserve during the delivery of a shipment is a crucial step in protecting the rights of the recipient and responsibly managing the acceptance of goods. In this in-depth guide, we will explore the meaning of signing with reserve, examine the circumstances in which it is advisable to adopt this practice, and analyse the procedures to follow to maximize the protection of your interests.

What is Signing with Reserve?

Signing with reserve is a mechanism that allows the recipient to accept the delivery of a shipment but with the important addition of annotations on the receipt. These annotations indicate that, despite the formal acceptance of the goods, there are concerns or issues that require further verification or corrective actions.

When to Sign with Reserve?

Damaged Packages: In the presence of visible damages to the packaging or content, signing with reserve is essential to document and promptly communicate any issues.

Incomplete Deliveries: If the shipment is incomplete or items are missing, signing with reserve serves as an immediate testimony to the encountered irregularity.

Damaged Packaging: Even if the content appears intact, damages to the packaging may indicate improper handling during transportation, justifying the need to sign with reserve.

After-Hours Delivery or Inability to Inspect: When the delivery occurs at times when the recipient cannot adequately inspect the goods, signing with reserve becomes an essential precaution.

How to Sign with Reserve Effectively?

Detail Observations Explicitly: At the time of signing, explicitly detail any observed damage or irregularity. This may include a precise description of the damage, its location, and any other relevant information.

Document with Photos and Videos: Take detailed photos and, if possible, record videos documenting the condition of the package before opening. These visual proofs can be crucial in case of future disputes.

Immediately Communicate with the Courier and Sender: After signing with reserve, immediately communicate with the courier to inform them of your observations. Similarly, notify the sender of any issues encountered.

Rights and Responsibilities at Play

Protection of Recipient’s Rights: Signing with reserve is a right of the recipient, legally recognized to promptly report issues during delivery.

Ethical and Legal Obligations of the Courier: The courier has ethical and legal obligations to deliver the goods in proper conditions. Signing with reserve provides a clear record of the conditions at the time of delivery.

Fair Dispute Resolution: In situations of disputes, signing with reserve becomes a key element for a fair and timely resolution of issues. The detailed annotations and collected evidence facilitate this process.

Conclusions

Signing with reserve for the delivery of a shipment is a responsible practice that protects the recipient from potential inconveniences. Clear documentation, the use of visual evidence, and timely communication with the courier and sender are crucial for effectively addressing any issues. This practice, in addition to ensuring the integrity of the delivery process, serves as a robust foundation for dispute resolution, ensuring that recipients are fully protected, and every problem is addressed with due attention.