Prevent packages from returning to Canada Post office: choose your delivery preference

Intro

It is frustrating that some of packages returned to the "nearest" post office, even though I had been waiting at home to receive packages. Sometimes the postmen/postwomen ring the door bell when they have arrived my home; sometimes they don't and simply return the packages back to a post office.

The "nearest" post office is determined solely by the linear distance between your home and a post office. That would be perfectly make sense if you own a private car, then you will have little trouble to get there and pick up your packages. If you don't own a car, that's a bad news for you. The post office selected by the shortest linear distance might not be accessible on foot or taking a bus, which is true in my case.

Is there anything you can do to stop this tragedy from happening?

Could I have choices before my packages are sent back to a post office?

Yes, you can choose the delivery preference for packages handled by Canada Post, for free.

To do so, you need the tracking number of package.

How to pick your choice of delivery using the website of Canada Post?

Go to the website of Canada Post, and enter your tracking number.

After that, you are able to view the status of the package, expected delivery date and its current location.

On the right hand side, you should be able to find a column named as Delivery Preference. That's the one we are looking for.

Clicking the blue button Select allows you to select where the package will be deal with, when it arrives your place.

By default, if there's no one answering when representative of Canada Post arrived, the package will be sent back to the nearest post office.

You may choose the options, either front door or garage would be a suitable choice if you live in a house. If you live in a condo or apartment, front desk or superintendent would be a wise choice.

Enter your email address afterwards. Remember to read, agree to the T&C and click that blue Submit button.

Once you save the delivery preference, it will show up on the delivery status page.

Then you can receive the package without the hustle!

How does Canada Post determine which post office is the destination of your packages that no one picked up?

The "nearest" post office is determined solely by the linear distance between your home and a post office.