Do you allow guests to send packages to your home?

[Michelle3684]

Hello fellow hosts!

I'm a new host and I've been doing well so far.  I'd like your opinion on my dilemma.

I had a new upcoming booking where the guest messaged me first and asked if his daughter could stay with him and his wife in our guest suite for one night as she will be moving into her college dorm the next morning.  Our guest suite only allows two people max.   Since they arrive late and the daughter will be leaving the next morning, I allowed it.  It's a 3 night stay.

Now they are asking if they can ship some parcels to my home address for her move into the college dorm.  Would you allow this?  

I want a good review BUT don't want to encourage more requests from them.

I'm thinking to refuse this request as I don't want to be responsible for their packages either being stolen from the front porch, or storing them on their behalf or possibly getting the customs invoice for shipping.   Or am I overthinking this?

What would you do?

[Helen3]

An absolute no to them having packages delivered to your accommodation They can get them delivered to a collection point and pick them up from there.

Just confirm you can't accept deliveries for guests as you don't have someone available for deliveries and can''t be responsible for any damage or issues relating to a delivery.

Where is the daughter sleeping.  @Michelle3684 

[Michelle3684 · Accepted solution]

I've allowed the daughter to sleep on the couch and they will be bringing a sleeping bag.  They arrive at midnight and will be leaving at 7am the next morning for her college check in.  For 7 hours (a very short night) I won't charge extra now as I already agreed.  They did ask in advance.

Thank you for answering my questions about package delivery.  I will be declining that request.

[Helen744]

@Michelle3684 Just send the number and address of the local post office and ask them to collect all parcels from there as it is safer... H

[Helen744]

Also institue an extra charge for the daughter and provide a camp bed or floor mattress. send this as an extra charge . Keep the amount reasonable .. H

[Michelle3684]

Thank you.  I will be declining their request and ask them to send packages either straight to the university dormitory or the local post office or Amazon lockers.  

I also feel uncomfortable having packages delivered to my address under a different name in addition to the added responsibility.

[Emilia42]

@Michelle3684 

I also live in a college town. I've had this exact same scenario happen quite a few times and expect future requests. I actually added a daybed to one of my listings to make it easier to manage. As for the packages, I really don't mind. It's easy for me to store them and put them suite before they arrive. Since many of these parents are flying in with their college students and haven't made other connections at the school or in town yet they are always so appreciative. Many of these guests return over the next 4 years. Do whatever works for you.