It's not nearly as annoying as Parceline, who put a note through your door on weekday mornings saying you were out, that if you are out again they will retain it for 3 days and then return to sender.
They helpfully add that you can pay to have it dropped off at a post office, or collect from their depot (20 miles away).
The final option, which I imagine most go for in desperation, is that you absolve them of all responsibilty, sign a little chitty and let them leave it on the doorstep.
It's the one downside to internet purchases - they tend to use them a lot.
As for the good old PO - don't always get it right, but thei depot is only a mile away....