A smarter approach to shipping high-value goods in a risk-filled landscape
Tech shippers know the drill: bubble wrap, box, ship. But when you’re regularly sending out phones, laptops and other high-value goods, protection goes beyond packaging.
In today’s shipping landscape, challenges like return abuse, shipment interception and tracking blind spots are becoming more common — not just for big-box retailers, but for small businesses, too. Your system may already be solid but understanding where things could go off track can help keep your shipments on course.
Because while fraud may be getting smarter, so are shippers.
The new reality of shipping tech
Return fraud isn’t new. But the sophistication of today’s schemes has taken a sharp turn. Some customers return a different item altogether — sending back an old or broken version of the product, or something entirely unrelated. Others take advantage of generous policies, dispute deliveries that arrived just fine or keep both the product and the refund.
Related: When porch pirates strike, build customer loyalty instead
Even package interception is evolving. In one recent case, criminals allegedly used stolen FedEx credentials and telecom data to identify and steal high-value shipments, like iPhones, before they reached their destinations.
None of this means you should panic. But it’s a clear reminder that what happens after your click “ship” deserves just as much attention as the box you pack it in.
The quiet fixes that pay off
It’s not about scrapping what works — it’s about making small, strategic improvements that help prevent bigger problems later:
Use unbranded, low-profile packaging
Flashy boxes are great for marketing, but they also tip off thieves. When shipping tech, don’t advertise what’s inside. Plain packaging is the way to go.
Require a signature upon delivery
It’s one extra step, but it keeps packages from being left unattended. Bonus: it gives you a verified delivery record in case of disputes.
Encourage secure delivery locations
Whether it’s a business address, a locker or a local pickup point, providing customers with options can significantly reduce theft risks.
Related: How to protect your tech shipments from damage, delay and disasters
Revisit your return policies
If returns are part of your model, make sure you’re verifying what comes back — serial numbers, weight checks and product photos all help reduce fraud.
Improve tracking and communication
Customers are less likely to dispute a delivery if they’ve received accurate, proactive updates along the way. Clear status alerts benefit everyone.
Use insurance to bridge the gaps
Even the most careful strategy has its limitations. Third-party insurance (like Parcel Insurance Plan) gives you more flexibility and better coverage than standard carrier liability — especially for high-value goods.
Your best defense is a better strategy
Tech shipping will always come with risk — it’s the nature of sending high-value, high-demand goods across a sprawling logistics network. But those risks don’t have to define your operations.
By making small but meaningful adjustments to your shipping, packaging and returns process, you’ll not only reduce losses, but you’ll also build a smoother, safer experience for your customers, too.
Want to add a little more peace of mind to your shipping strategy? Get a quote from Parcel Insurance Plan and explore smarter protection for your most valuable shipments.
This material has been prepared for general informational purposes only, is intended to apply generally rather than to any specific company, and presumes appropriate discretion will be exercised regarding any particular situation.
