What Is Cash on Delivery & How to Avoid Scams

What does COD mean in online shopping?

COD stands for cash on delivery — in Malay, “bayar tunai semasa terima”. The seller ships the goods through a courier, the courier collects payment from you at the door, and the money is then passed to the seller.

Some couriers accept COD payment by e-wallet or QR code, but this depends on the courier and area.

How does the COD process work?

You place an order with the seller and give your name, phone number and address.
The seller confirms the order and the amount to pay.
The parcel is shipped; the courier may call you before arriving.
You check the details on the label, then pay the exact amount to the courier.

For Lebih Yakin orders, the steps are explained in how to order, and COD details for our store are on the shipping & COD page.

What are the pros and cons of COD?

The main advantage is that you do not have to share card details or transfer money before the goods arrive. This suits people who are new to shopping online.

The downsides are that you, or someone you trust, must be home to receive and pay, you need cash ready, and COD may not be available in every area. Most couriers also do not let you open the parcel before paying.

How do COD parcel scams happen?

Ninja Van warns about COD parcels sent to people who never bought them, or whose contents are far from what was expected. Malay Mail (June 2025) reported that scammers use victims' personal details to send parcels that were never ordered, hoping someone at home will pay.

How can you avoid COD scams?

Only pay for parcels you ordered yourself. If unsure, ask your family before paying.
Check the seller's name and the amount on the label against your order confirmation.
Refuse suspicious parcels and do not pay — this is Ninja Van's own advice.
Do not click links or give personal details through unknown “courier” texts or calls.
If you have been scammed, call the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) on 997 and make a police report.

Frequently asked questions

What does COD mean?

COD means cash on delivery. You pay the courier when the parcel arrives, not when you place the order.

Can I open a COD parcel before paying?

Usually not. Most couriers require payment before the parcel is opened. Check the details on the label against your order confirmation before paying.

What should I do if I receive a COD parcel I did not order?

Refuse the parcel and do not pay. If you have been scammed, call the NSRC on 997 and make a police report.

Is COD safer than paying online?

COD reduces the risk of paying for goods that never arrive, but it does not guarantee quality. Buy from sellers you can contact, and check health products for a MAL number.