17.6%
of online merchandise was returned in 2023 NRF / Appriss data
NRF and Appriss Retail, 2023 Consumer Returns report
Guide
Video proof of delivery
Video proof of delivery that shows what arrived, not only that something arrived
Classic POD is a signature or a geo-tagged scan. Useful for “was it delivered?” Useless for “was it this SKU in this condition?” Video proof of delivery answers the second question, the one that shows up in return disputes.
Why courier POD is not video proof of delivery
When a customer claims empty box or wrong item weeks later, a delivered scan only proves a handoff. It does not show colour, model, seal, or accessories.
Brands then argue from packing lists and warehouse cameras they may not have. A short customer or doorstep video tied to the order ID is often the missing baseline for return fraud prevention.
Industry context
Numbers ops teams actually feel
These are attributed industry figures from retail returns research and common ops ranges, not Vefri case studies. Use them to size the problem for your catalogue and AOV.
Scan limit
Courier POD rarely includes product identity or packaging state
Logistics product design
Baseline
Delivery video makes return verification a comparison, not a debate
Evidence-led QC
links usually beat “email us a video” for completion in India D2C
India D2C channel pattern
When video proof of delivery pays for itself
You do not need a movie for every low-AOV SKU. You need clarity where loss concentrates.
Electronics and gadgets
Serials, seals, and accessories drive disputes. A 20-second unbox saves hours later.
Fashion with colour/size swaps
Show the garment tags and colour in good light at delivery.
High AOV or limited drops
One fake return can erase many good orders. Capture early.
Repeat dispute customers
Trigger delivery capture when history shows empty-box or wrong-item claims.
How to collect video proof of delivery
Send a capture link when the order is out for delivery or marked delivered. Ask for a continuous clip: outer pack, seal, product, tags. Store it against the order. On return, compare.
Consent and clarity matter. Tell customers why you ask and how long you keep the clip. Same honesty bar as the rest of your security posture.
- Keep instructions short: one screen, one record button
- Do not rely on courier apps your brand does not control
- Use the same order ID across Shopify, courier, and evidence
From video POD to dispute defence
Video proof of delivery is step one of a longer verification chain.
Step 1
Trigger
Fire the capture link on delivery-related events.
Step 2
Record
Customer captures unboxing or doorstep reveal.
Step 3
Store
Attach media to the order for QC later.
Step 4
Compare
On return, match against return evidence before refund.
Video proof of delivery with Vefri
Vefri sends capture links (including via WhatsApp), stores delivery recordings on the order, and pairs them with return captures for side-by-side review. Couriers keep scanning. You keep the visual proof.
Size the leak with the return fraud cost calculator or the ROI calculator.
FAQ
Common questions
Video proof of delivery is a short video showing the parcel and product at delivery or unboxing, used as evidence of what the customer received.
Get started
Start collecting delivery video on high-risk orders
Send your first capture link after you connect Shopify or Shiprocket.