Signature Confirmation

Signature confirmation requires someone to sign for a package at delivery, rather than the carrier leaving it unattended. This adds security and creates documented proof that a specific person received the shipment.

Types of Signature Services

Indirect Signature

• Any adult at the address can sign
• Neighbor may sign
• Most flexible option
• Lower cost

Direct Signature

• Only recipient at the address
• Someone at that specific address
• Cannot leave with neighbor
• Medium security

Adult Signature

• Recipient 21+ years old
• ID verification required
• Required for alcohol, tobacco
• Highest security level

Signature Service Costs

Note: Included free with some premium services.

When Signature Is Required

Legally Required

• Alcohol shipments
• Tobacco products
• Firearms
• Certain medications
• Controlled substances

Commonly Recommended

• Expensive electronics
• Jewelry
• High-value items
• Important documents
• Fragile items

Carrier Thresholds

• Some carriers require signature above $500 value
• Insurance claims may require signature service
• Shipper can always add signature

How Signature Confirmation Works

At Delivery

1. Driver arrives at address
2. Requests signature from recipient
3. Signature captured (electronic or paper)
4. Package released to signer

If No One Home

• Delivery attempt recorded
• Notice left (door tag)
• Redelivery scheduled
• Pickup at facility option
• May try neighbor (indirect only)

Signature vs. No Signature

Managing Signature Deliveries

For Recipients

Options when not home:

1. Redirect to pickup location
2. Reschedule delivery
3. Authorize neighbor (if indirect)
4. Leave signed delivery release (some carriers)
5. Request hold at facility

Pre-delivery:

• Sign up for delivery alerts
• Track package actively
• Know delivery window
• Have backup plan

Delivery Release

Some carriers allow:

• Signed waiver (shipper or recipient)
• Standing instructions on file
• Removes signature requirement
• Increases theft risk

Business Considerations

When to Require Signature

Recommended for:

• Items over $200
• Irreplaceable items
• Legal/compliance requirements
• High-risk delivery areas
• Customer requests

May skip for:

• Low-value items
• Repeat trusted customers
• Secure delivery locations
• When convenience prioritized

Customer Experience

• Signature adds friction
• Some customers prefer flexibility
• Offer as option at checkout
• Explain benefits

Signature Confirmation Tracking

What you’ll see:

• “Signature on file”
• “Signed by: [NAME]”
• “Signed at: [TIME]”
• Image of signature (often available)

For disputes:

• Request signature image
• Verify name matches
• Check delivery location
• Contact carrier for investigation