The Internet and eCommerce have completely changed the way people shop online. It has made life easier for everyone. Today visiting a physical store to purchase a product has become a thing of the past. This is because one can order any item from their favorite brand with a few clicks and get it delivered at their address within days. Further, one can choose from a variety of available payment methods and buy the required products online from the available Ecommerce website.Â
While popular digital payment methods like UPI and online bank transfers have completely changed the way we do online transactions, a majority of Indian customers still prefer cash on delivery as an ideal & reliable option for payments.Â
For these customers, the assurance of paying only after receiving their order outperforms the quick digital transaction options. Businesses from different niches must provide the cash-on-delivery option as a payment option to avoid losing customers and further sales.
In this blog post, we will explain more about CoD courier services and share a list of top CoD courier companies, along with some helpful tips for choosing the right courier partner that fulfills customer’s needs.
What is a Cash on Delivery Courier Service?
A cash on delivery courier service provides last mile delivery to customers and helps them to pay at the time of final delivery, instead of paying in advance. Here the final payment is collected only after the order has been delivered to the customer’s doorstep. While this method fulfills the customer preferences and builds trust, it also introduces certain kinds of uncertainties.Â
These are whether the customer will accept the order, pay the full amount, or initiate a return-to-origin (RTO) request. These types of factors can complicate the process. With online payments, the seller typically holds more control, as the payment is already secured.
The customer then bears the responsibility of being available to receive their order at the specified time. In contrast, CoD relies on mutual trust, as sellers ship orders without guaranteed payment, taking on additional risks that can affect their profit margins if the transaction doesn’t go as planned.
To address these challenges, CoD couriers implement safeguards to minimize risks & inefficiencies. These measures include:
CoD Reconciliation: Ensures accurate payment collection and early COD remittance.
Proof-of-Delivery Reports: Provides confirmation that the order was delivered and payment was received.
Returns Management: Streamlines the process for handling rejected or returned orders.
Such solutions not only reduce the risks associated with CoD but also enable businesses to offer this payment option effectively. This, in turn gives customers the option to use digital payments and to better engage in eCommerce confidently. This results in increasing the overall reach of online shopping.
India’s Top Cash on Delivery (COD) Service Providers in 2025
Below we have listed some of the popular COD courier service companies in India that provide secure payment collection and delivery for eCommerce businesses and help them to grow.
1. Delhivery
Delhivery has become a powerhouse in the Indian logistics industry with its roots in Delhi and nearby cities like Noida, Gurgaon, and Ghaziabad. Their COD services foster trust between sellers and buyers, offering transparency and reliability. With flexible pricing—typically ₹50 or 2% of the COD value—Delhivery ensures affordability while maintaining high standards, making them a go-to choice for many businesses.
2. XpressBees
Understanding the importance of COD for Indian consumers, XpressBees has developed a robust system that allows customers to inspect products before payment. This trust-building mechanism has made XpressBees a reliable partner for businesses looking to enhance customer confidence.
3. Shadowfax
Shadowfax has been redefining the Indian COD logistics industry for the past five years and providing door-to-door services that focus more on punctuality and security. For businesses that are looking to build trust, Shadowfax’s reliable COD offerings are indispensable. This helps to earn a top spot among India’s COD service providers.
4. FedEx
Known globally for its logistics expertise, FedEx tailors its COD services to the needs of the Indian market. Their system allows shippers to collect invoice values via payment methods while offering real-time shipment updates. With transparent pricing and world-class service, FedEx remains a trusted partner for COD deliveries.
5. DTDC
Since 1990, DTDC has balanced tradition and innovation, evolving with advanced IT infrastructure. Their COD services offer flexibility, including UPI and digital payment options upon delivery, catering to modern customer needs. This blend of adaptability and reliability solidifies DTDC’s position in the logistics sector.
