How to hand over a parcel to a traveler safely

Message or, better, call the traveler and discuss the details. Ask for links to their social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, VK and others) and make sure they really belong to the traveler by writing to them there. This helps confirm the person exists and decide whether to trust them with the delivery.

Never agree to prepayment and do not send money before meeting the person, ideally not before the parcel is handed over in person. Fraud cases have become more frequent recently.

Unfortunately, judging by other apps and social media groups, scams do happen. Whoflies does not act as a guarantor (yet), and you are fully responsible for handing over and delivering parcels and documents. Please choose and get to know the traveler carefully, talk, clarify all the details, and only then hand over the parcel or documents.

1. Above all, we strongly advise against taking anything sealed, be it a new iPhone as a gift for a friend, an envelope with a will or a pack of rice. However much you are asked or assured that there is nothing prohibited inside, even with receipts — feel free to refuse or ask to unpack the parcel and inspect it in detail. Play the strict border officer: it is your life, and potential trouble is not worth the risk.

2. If you have even the slightest suspicion that something is wrong, refuse to carry it. Do not regret the time spent on messages and meetings; you should not feel awkward — it is your life.

3. Be sure to check the export and import rules of the countries of departure and arrival, as well as the airline’s rules. There are often unexpected facts: for example, IQOS devices are banned from import to Turkey, and any vapes in Thailand.

Because fraud has become more frequent, we strongly advise against taking prepayment and recommend settling only when the parcel is handed over in person at the destination.