How to Reduce Fake Cash-on-Delivery Orders in Pakistan
Practical ways online stores and restaurants cut refused and fake COD orders without scaring away real customers
· 6 min read · By the GECA team
Why COD orders go wrong
Most refused orders are not malicious. Customers change their mind, order by mistake, give an incomplete address or were never really committed. A smaller share are deliberate fakes. Both cost you the same: stock, preparation and a delivery trip.
1. Verify the phone number with OTP
Sending a one-time code to the customer's phone before the order is accepted confirms the number is real and reachable, and adds a moment of commitment. On GECA, COD orders can be verified this way at checkout.
2. Only accept orders you can deliver
Delivery zones stop orders from areas you cannot serve on time, and minimum order values keep small, low-intent orders from tying up riders.
3. Make the product unmistakable
- Clear photos from several angles
- Sizes, materials or ingredients spelled out
- Delivery time and fees shown before checkout
Customers who know exactly what is coming are far less likely to refuse it at the door.
4. Offer an easy prepaid option
Some customers will happily pay upfront if it is simple. Offering JazzCash, Easypaisa or bank transfer alongside COD shifts part of your orders to prepaid.
5. Confirm high-value orders personally
For large orders, a short WhatsApp confirmation before dispatch catches mistakes early.
6. Keep a record
Your order history shows repeat problem numbers and areas, so you can adjust zones or require prepayment where needed.
