Package theft has become an increasingly common problem as more people shop online and have items delivered to their homes. According to an analysis by InsuranceQuotes, nearly 26 million Americans have had a package stolen from their doorstep.
If you’re worried about becoming a victim of package theft, there are several things you can do to help ensure your deliveries arrive safely. This comprehensive guide will provide tips on preventing package theft, securing deliveries, choosing delivery locations, using security cameras, and taking action if a package does go missing.
What are the most common times for package theft to occur?
Package theft can happen at any time of day, but data shows there are peak times when thieves are most active:
- Early afternoon – Many packages are dropped off between noon and 3 p.m. when many people are still away at work. Thieves may monitor typical delivery times in neighborhoods.
- Evening hours – Packages left out in the evening can be targets for opportunistic thieves.
- Late nights/early mornings – Some bold thieves may steal packages overnight when fewer witnesses are present.
- Weekdays – More packages are delivered Monday through Friday when most households are away at work or school.
- Holidays – Increased deliveries during the holidays mean more targets for thieves. More packages are left unattended while residents travel.
What areas are most prone to package theft?
Certain areas see higher rates of package theft than others. According to data, the following areas tend to be package theft hot spots:
- Urban areas – High population density means more packages delivered and more targets for thieves.
- Suburban areas – The suburbs see many packages delivered to unattended homes during the day.
- Lower income neighborhoods – Some research indicates higher rates of package theft occur in poorer areas.
- Residential areas – Houses are more prone to package theft than apartments with secured lobbies.
- Areas near transportation – Easier access to highways, trains, and buses enables quick escapes.
What products are most commonly stolen?
Most items left on doorsteps are at risk of theft. But data indicates some products are more enticing to package thieves:
- Electronics – Items like laptops, tablets, and smartphones are expensive and easy to resell.
- Smart devices – Smart speakers, WiFi cameras, video doorbells, and other gadgets are stolen from porches.
- Apparel and shoes – Clothing is easy to take and resell in high demand.
- Jewelry – Rings, watches, necklaces, and bracelets are lucrative targets for thieves.
- Sports equipment – Bikes left outside are popular targets for opportunistic thieves.
- Deliveries from Amazon – With millions of packages, Amazon has become a prime target.
How can I prevent package theft from occurring?
While there’s no foolproof way to guarantee a package won’t be stolen, there are steps you can take to significantly reduce the chances of package theft:
Choose a secure delivery location
The best way to prevent porch pirates from swiping packages is to not ship them to your porch at all. Consider these more secure locations:
- Your workplace – Have packages delivered to your office where they can be brought inside.
- A friend or neighbor – Someone who stays home during the day can take them in.
- An Amazon locker – Many cities have secure lockers where packages can be picked up.
- A store – Some retailers allow packages to be shipped to a local store for pickup.
- A mailbox – Only USPS delivers to residential mailboxes. UPS/FedEx require a signature.
Provide delivery instructions
Leave clear instructions for drivers about where to leave a package such as:
- A hidden area – Ask them to place it behind a planter or furniture on the porch.
- Side or back door – The front is more visible so use a less conspicuous location.
- Garage – Open the garage door so packages can be left inside.
- With a neighbor – If arranged, they can receive a package for you.
Require a signature
Arranging a signature delivery ensures packages won’t be left unattended. There are a few options for requiring a signature:
- UPS My Choice – This free program allows delivery instructions for UPS packages.
- FedEx Delivery Manager – Provides options for scheduling FedEx deliveries.
- USPS – Check the box to “Require Signature” when sending priority mail.
- Amazon – Select “Do not deliver package without recipient signature” during checkout.
Use smart locks and secure delivery boxes
Secure delivery solutions include:
- Smart locks – Allow delivery people to access your porch or garage to leave packages.
- Package delivery boxes – Locking drop boxes keep packages secure after delivery.
Track your packages
Tracking shipments helps ensure you know when a package should arrive. Being unaware a delivery was made makes theft more likely. Tracking options include:
- Delivery carrier alerts – UPS, FedEx, Amazon etc. send email/text alerts when a package ships and is delivered.
- Third-party apps – Apps like Deliveries or PackageTrackr monitor shipment status across carriers.
- Security cameras – View deliveries happening in real time.
How can I secure packages after delivery?
Even using preventative measures, packages may still sometimes be left unattended. Here are smart tips for securing delivered packages:
Collect packages quickly
Don’t leave deliveries sitting outside for extended periods. Prioritize bringing packages inside soon after delivery.
Hide packages from view
Keep packages out of sight from the street. Ideas include:
- Placing behind outdoor furniture or plants.
- Covering with a doormat or car cover.
- Asking to leave packages between screen doors and front doors.
Hold packages for pickup
If you won’t be home, some carriers can hold packages for pickup at their locations:
- UPS Access Point – Select over 1,000 pickup points like CVS, Michaels, Advance Auto.
- FedEx Hold at Location – Pick up at FedEx Office, Walgreens, or Albertsons.
- USPS Hold For Pickup – Retrieve packages at your local post office.
Use package protection bags
These bags conceal package contents and often have theft protection guarantees:
- Package Guard bags
- Porch Pirate bags
- Boxlock bags
Should I install a security camera to deter package theft?
Security cameras are a highly effective deterrent against package theft. Potential thieves scoping for targets will skip homes with visible cameras. Cameras also provide video evidence to catch thieves or prove theft occurred. Consider these security camera options:
Video doorbell cameras
Video doorbells like Ring or Nest capture motion-triggered and live video of package deliveries. Doorbell cameras are convenient since you already have existing doorbell wiring to connect into.
Floodlight cameras
Bright floodlights automatically turn on motion detection. This lighting deters thieves while built-in cameras record activity. Install above the garage or other delivery locations.
Porch security cameras
Mini porch cameras watch activity around doors and package drop-off zones. Compact designs are easy to install in discreet locations a thief may not notice.
Wireless security cameras
Battery-powered or solar-powered cameras provide flexible placement requiring no wiring. Stick them anywhere with clear views of porches or doors.
Fake security cameras
For a budget option, dummy cameras appear operational to discourage thefts. But they won’t actually capture video of activity.
What should I do if a package gets stolen?
Even with preventative measures in place, package theft can still occur. Here are steps to take if a delivery goes missing:
Report the theft to the retailer
Contact the seller and delivery carrier to report the stolen package. They will investigate and may provide replacement or refund options.
Check with neighbors
Politely ask nearby households if they may have seen the package or have helpful security camera footage. Neighbors can keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
File a police report
Reporting theft to the police creates an official record. Police reports help with insurance claims. But police may not give priority to investigating minor thefts.
Review security footage
Check smart doorbell, security camera or dash cam footage. You may capture the thief in the act for identification or evidence.
Post on community websites
Post details of the theft on neighborhood apps like Nextdoor to warn others. Community members may share helpful tips or sightings.
Ship high-value packages requiring signature
In the future, ship valuable items only with signature requirements so packages won’t be left unattended.
Adjust delivery locations and instructions
Update delivery directions to more secure locations to prevent repeat thefts. For example, use an Amazon locker going forward.
Beef up security
Add security cameras, locks, or other deterrents around your property. Extra security measures make your home a more difficult target.
Conclusion
Package theft is an annoying crime on the rise as more valuables get delivered to porches. While completely preventing package theft isn’t always possible, implementing smart precautions can significantly lower your risk. Securing deliveries requires a combination of preventative measures, safeguarding delivered parcels, and responding appropriately if an unfortunate theft does occur.
The most effective package theft solutions involve limiting deliveries left unattended at your door whenever possible. Consider secure pick-up points or signature requirements to keep your packages safely in the hands of carriers. When unavoidable, apply deterrents like delivery instructions, hiding spots, smart lockers, and security cameras.
Taking initiative to apply comprehensive preventative measures tailored to your property layout, daily schedule, and neighborhood dynamics can help you avoid becoming another statistic. While you can never fully control thieves’ behavior, implementing savvy delivery strategies and utilizing available technological resources will stack the odds decidedly in your favor of safely receiving packages.