I placed an order for an Apple iPhone Pro Max on 31st March with A1 Tech Deals, with delivery scheduled for 1st April via DPD. Prior to delivery, I received clear notification through the courier’s app stating that the item could not be left in a safe place.
As I was unavailable on the day of delivery, I expected a failed delivery attempt and redelivery—standard procedure for high-value goods. Instead, the driver chose to leave a £1200 parcel unattended on my doorstep, in a highly exposed location in a busy town centre near a public car park and school. When I returned home, the parcel was missing, despite the delivery photo showing it left outside.
DPD advised that the retailer had authorised the parcel to be left. This directly contradicts both the courier’s own tracking notice and my lack of consent for any “safe place” delivery. At no point did I authorise the item to be left unattended because there is no safe place to do so at my home.
When I contacted A1 Tech Deals, I was met with dismissive and accusatory responses, including being effectively told that my report could not be trusted. This is unacceptable, particularly given the circumstances and value of the item.
The retailer’s public response states the item was “successfully delivered” based on GPS and photographic evidence. However, under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, delivery is not considered complete until the goods are in the physical possession of the consumer. Leaving a parcel unattended—especially when explicitly not permitted—does not meet this requirement.
The responsibility for the goods remains with the retailer until they are safely delivered into the customer’s possession. Any dispute with the courier is a matter for the retailer to resolve—not the customer.
Despite this, A1 Tech Deals have failed to provide a resolution and instead continue to rely on courier confirmation, while stating the matter is “under investigation.” This does not fulfil their legal obligation to the consumer.
I have sought advice and will be pursuing this further if necessary. I strongly advise others to exercise caution and consider purchasing from established, reputable retailers who understand and comply with UK consumer law.
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