Buyers' arbitrary COD cancellations breach Islamic trade ethics, experts warn

A recent surge in social media videos shows delivery couriers being attacked by buyers over Cash on Delivery (COD) disputes. Buyers refuse payment when goods don't meet expectations, even after opening packages, forcing couriers to return the items.

This phenomenon highlights a significant gap in public understanding of Islamic transactional ethics (fiqh muamalah). Many mistakenly view COD as a "try before you buy" option, ignoring that arbitrary cancellations harm fairness principles in Islam. Clicking "Buy with COD" creates a binding promise (wa'ad), obligating the buyer to pay for the item and the shipping service.

Islam strongly emphasizes upholding commitments, as stated in the Quran (Al-Maidah: 1). Unilateral cancellations without emergency reasons directly contradict this. Such actions also violate the fundamental Islamic legal principle of "La dharara wa la dhirara," meaning "do no harm to yourself or others." This practice shifts financial burdens onto sellers and couriers, who incur costs for shipping, fuel, and lost time.

While Islamic jurisprudence allows for the "Khiyar" (option to cancel) in cases of fraud or defective goods, the digital age requires a different approach. E-commerce platforms offer official return systems. The ethical and Islamic way is to first pay the courier, fulfilling the shipping service obligation. Then, if the item is unsatisfactory, file a formal complaint through the platform for a refund. This process respects the rights of all parties involved and ensures fair trade.