Go to Canpar tracking page, there's a link at the bottom for a notice to have them leave it at your door (or specific instruction). Print it out and leave it by your door and Canpar would follow the instruction (like put it inside my garage)
Done this more then once. I asked them to put it behind the gate at the side of my house (it's 10 feet away from door). They also take the notice so people won't read it if they come to your door and take it
You chose to not inquire about their method of shipping. If you want to avoid using Canpar, actually put some effort into it. If you decide to not drive and pick up the packages available to you from Canpar again that's your choice and not the fault of either the shipper or retailer. If you're frustrated with yourself don't take it out on the retailer. Maybe eating the cost of shipping will help you realize your responsibility here.
Nothing bizarre at all, that's normal for Canpar, what's worse is when you drive the many kilometers to the depot at the described time and nobody is there. With all the trouble I wonder why these venders list them as a shipping option.
Oh I fully learned my lesson. Its "don't buy from this vendor again". I take responsibility for myself not doing my due diligence in the transaction, and accept that it cost me 25$. Im happy it wasn't more. That said, I know plenty of vendors that would go way beyond what this one has in the customer service department, and will continue giving them my business instead.