Implementation of the COD payment method on e-commerce websites in the Arab Region

Abstract

The cash on delivery (COD) payment method has been increasingly used in recent years as a method of payment in e-commerce transactions. However, research within the e-commerce field to determine how widely this payment method has been adopted is limited, especially from the e-commerce websites' perspective, at the global level, and specifically in Arab countries. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to study the current use of COD in the Arab region by evaluating e-commerce websites that accept this payment method. The research findings showed that all surveyed e-commerce websites have adopted the COD payment method in addition to other e-payment options. The findings also revealed that there is no consistency in the icon/image used to indicate acceptance of this payment method or where it is located on the website. Results also revealed that there is lack of clarity in policies pertaining to this payment method. The interpretations of the research findings and implications as well as future research are discussed.