10 Essential Tips on How to Prevent Package Theft
In today's world of online shopping, the convenience of home delivery can be overshadowed by the fear of package theft. Porches across the country become vulnerable drop-off points, leaving valuable items susceptible to disappearing acts. But fear not, proactive measures can significantly deter would-be thieves and ensure your packages reach their intended destination – your doorstep. Here are 10 essential tips to prevent package theft and keep your deliveries safe:
Over 119 million packages were stolen in the US in 2023, translating to one in every 200 deliveries.
Nearly half (43%) of Americans have experienced package stolen, with millions losing over $8 billion worth of merchandise annually.
Tip 1: Sign Up for Delivery Alerts:
Most delivery companies like FedEx, UPS, USPS and Amazon offers free notification services that alert you via email, text message, or app notification when your package is out for delivery or has been delivered. This allows you to be aware of the package's arrival and take steps to secure it promptly.The official website of the USPS offers tips and advice on preventing mail and package theft. You can find their website at https://www.usps.com/.
Tip 2: Request a Signature Upon Delivery:
While it might add a slight inconvenience, requiring a signature upon delivery forces someone to be present to receive the package. This significantly reduces the risk of a thief grabbing the package and disappearing unnoticed.
Managing the Inconvenience: While it's true that requiring a signature might add a slight inconvenience, there are ways to manage it:
Plan to be home: If possible, schedule deliveries for days when you know you'll be home to receive them.
Arrange for alternatives: If you can't be home, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect the package on your behalf.
Utilize delivery options: Some delivery companies offer alternative options like in-home delivery services or package locker pick-up locations like amazon locker, eliminating the need for someone to be home for a signature.
Tip 3: Install Security Devices:
A visible security camera, especially one facing your porch, acts as a strong deterrent to potential thieves. The presence of a camera can make them think twice about stealing a package, knowing they might be caught on video. Consider Kangaroo Indoor+Outdoor Camera and Kangaroo Doorbells which offer two options:
Kangaroo Photo Doorbell Camera: This affordable option captures a snapshot of anyone approaching your door, allowing you to see who is there and deterring potential package thieves with its presence.
Kangaroo Video Doorbell Camera: This feature-rich option provides live streaming video and two-way talk functionality, enabling you to see, hear, and speak to whoever is at your door, even when you're not home. This allows you to remotely monitor deliveries and potentially interact with delivery personnel
Kangaroo Indoor/Outdoor Camera: See it all and choose to live stream or view recorded video t o see what your camera sees from anywhere, set your smart alerts with person detection, sound detection and zone detection. Spot and stop an incident with built-in Siren and Two-way talk
Enhance Your Security with Kangaroo Doorbell's Peace-of-Mind Options:
Kangaroo Doorbells not only act as visual deterrents but also offer additional security features through their subscription plans:
Tip 4: Invest in a Secure Package Box:
A secure package box, also known as a parcel locker, provides a locked compartment for deliveries. This way, even if a thief attempts to steal the package, they won't be able to access it without breaking the lock, deterring most opportunistic thefts.
Tip 5: Install a Smart Lock:
A good home security system such as Smart locks allow you to remotely lock and unlock your door using your smartphone. This can be helpful if you're expecting a delivery but can't be home to receive it. You can grant temporary access to delivery personnel for a specific window of time, ensuring they can drop off the package securely inside your home.
Tip 6: Require ID Verification for Age-Restricted Deliveries:
While most package deliveries are routine and straightforward, certain items require stricter handling due to age restrictions or sensitivity. For deliveries containing alcohol, medication, or other age-restricted products, consider requiring ID verification from the delivery person. This seemingly simple step adds a crucial layer of security and ensures responsible delivery, offering several benefits:
Preventing Misdirected Deliveries: By requiring ID verification, you ensure the package reaches the intended recipient, a responsible adult who meets the legal age requirement for the product. This minimizes the risk of the package being delivered to the wrong person, especially if left unattended on your doorstep.
Enhanced Security and Accountability: Asking for ID verification acts as a deterrent against potential theft or misuse of the age-restricted product. It demonstrates an extra layer of caution and holds the delivery company accountable for verifying the recipient's identity before handing over the package.
Peace of Mind and Regulatory Compliance: Requiring ID verification provides peace of mind, knowing you've taken an extra step to ensure responsible delivery. In some cases, it might even be necessary to comply with local regulations governing the sale and distribution of age-restricted products.
Implementing ID Verification:
Check with the Delivery Company: Many delivery companies offer options for requiring ID verification for specific types of deliveries. Inquire about their policies and procedures for handling age-restricted products.
Choose the Verification Method: Depending on the delivery company, you might be able to opt for age verification through a signature upon delivery with ID check, a scan of your government-issued ID, or an age verification check performed by the delivery driver at your door.
Inform the Sender (if applicable): If you're expecting an age-restricted delivery from a friend or family member, inform them to mention the age verification requirement when placing the order. This ensures the sender and the delivery company are both aware of the necessary verification steps.
Tip 7: Request In-Store or Locker Pickup:
Many online retailers offer the option to pick up your packages in-store or at designated locker locations. This eliminates the risk of porch theft altogether and allows you to pick up your purchases at your convenience.
Tip 8: Be Wary of Unusual Delivery Attempts:
If someone claiming to be a delivery person behaves suspiciously, don't hesitate to ask for identification or contact the delivery company directly to verify their legitimacy.
The National Sheriffs' Association (NSA): This organization provides resources and information on various safety and security topics, including package theft prevention. You can find their website at https://www.sheriffs.org/.
Tip 9: Encourage Good Neighbor Communication:
Communicate with your neighbors and keep an eye out for each other's deliveries. If you see a suspicious package on your neighbor's porch, let them know. Similarly, offer to collect their packages if they're away when a delivery arrives.
Tip 10: Report Package Theft Immediately:
If you do experience package theft, report it to the local authorities and the delivery company immediately. This helps track stolen items and potentially apprehend the culprits.
FAQs:
Q: What is package theft, also known as porch piracy?
A: Package theft, or porch piracy, is the act of stealing delivered packages from someone's porch, doorstep, or mailbox. It is a growing problem due to the rise of online shopping and the ease of reselling stolen goods.
Q: What should I do if my package is stolen?
A: If your package is stolen, here are the steps you should take:
File a police report: This documents the crime and potentially aids in apprehending the culprit.
Contact the delivery company: Inform them about the theft and inquire about their investigation and potential reimbursement options.
Contact your credit card company: If the stolen package was paid for with a credit card, report the theft and inquire about porch pirate protection benefits.
Q: Are there any legal implications for package theft?
A: Yes, package theft is a crime and can result in criminal charges, depending on the value of the stolen items and local laws.
Q: What are some additional resources for preventing package theft?
Your local police department might offer resources and tips on preventing package theft.
Many delivery companies provide information and resources on their websites and apps about how to keep your packages safe.
Online communities and forums dedicated to home security can offer additional tips and strategies.
Q: What are some specific features to look for in a doorbell camera for preventing package theft?
A: When choosing a doorbell camera for theft prevention, consider features like:
Motion detection: This alerts you when someone approaches your door, allowing you to respond in real-time through the camera app.
Night vision: Clear night vision ensures you can see activity at your doorstep even in low-light conditions.
Two-way talk: This allows you to speak to the person at your door through the app, potentially deterring them if they appear suspicious.
Cloud storage: Choose a camera with cloud storage to review footage of past events, even if your device is stolen or damaged.
Q: Are there any alternative delivery options to avoid porch theft altogether?
A: Yes, several options allow you to bypass doorstep delivery and pick up your packages at a secure location:
Delivery to a local store or pick-up point: Many retailers offer the option to pick up your purchases in-store or at designated pick-up locations like grocery stores or convenience stores.
Package lockers: Services like Amazon Hub Lockers or third-party locker networks provide secure locations where you can pick up your packages at your convenience using a unique code.
USPS Informed Delivery: This free service from the United States Postal Service allows you to digitally preview your upcoming mail, including packages, and schedule deliveries for a specific time slot or request hold for pick-up at the post office.
Q: What if I'm not comfortable installing a camera or security system?
A: If you're not comfortable with cameras or full security systems, consider these alternatives:
Install a simple "Beware of Dog" or "Security Camera in Use" sign: While not foolproof, these signs might deter some potential thieves.
Request a signature for all packages: This ensures someone needs to be present to receive the package, reducing the risk of it being left unattended.
Invest in a brightly lit porch light: Good lighting can deter thieves and make it easier for delivery personnel to identify your address.
Q: Are there any insurance options to cover package theft?
A: While not a complete solution, some options might offer some level of coverage for stolen packages:
Renter's or homeowner's insurance: Some policies might offer limited coverage for stolen packages under certain circumstances, like forced entry into your home. Check with your insurance provider for specific details and limitations.
Credit card purchase protection: Some credit cards offer purchase protection benefits that might cover stolen packages if paid for with that card. Contact your credit card issuer for specific details and eligibility requirements.
Q: How can I discourage delivery drivers from leaving packages on my porch if I'm not expecting to be home?
A: Several options can help prevent drivers from leaving packages unattended on your porch:
Leave specific instructions in the delivery notes: When placing your order, inform the delivery company to hold the package at the delivery center or a designated pick-up location if you won't be home.
Request a signature upon delivery: This ensures someone needs to be present to receive the package, forcing you to be home or arrange for someone to be there on your behalf.
Utilize services like Amazon Key Delivery to Garage: This option allows secure delivery directly into your garage, eliminating the risk of leaving the package on your porch.
Q: What are some creative ways to deter porch pirates besides installing cameras or security systems?
A: While technology plays a significant role, some creative solutions can deter potential thieves:
Package dummy: Place a realistic-looking empty box on your porch to create the illusion of having a security system monitoring the area.
Request "adult signature required" even for non-age-restricted items: This might deter thieves expecting easy targets.
Invest in a fake security camera: While not functional, a realistic-looking decoy camera might be enough to deter casual thieves.
Q: How can I track the progress of my package once it's shipped to prevent theft before it happens?
A: Most online retailers and delivery companies offer real-time package tracking capabilities:
Sign up for delivery notifications: Receive email, text message, or app alerts when your package ships, is out for delivery, or has been delivered.
Utilize the delivery company's tracking website or app: Track the progress of your package in real-time, allowing you to estimate its arrival and be prepared to receive it promptly.
Consider requesting "hold for pick-up" if you foresee being unavailable: If you anticipate not being home for delivery, some companies allow you to request holding the package at a nearby pick-up location for later retrieval.
Q: I'm worried about package theft during the holiday season, when deliveries are more frequent. What extra precautions can I take?
A: During peak seasons like the holidays, take additional measures to safeguard your packages:
Plan ahead and order gifts early: This allows for more time for deliveries and reduces the chances of them coinciding with periods when you might be away.
Communicate with family and neighbors: Inform them about expected deliveries and request them to keep an eye out for your packages if you're unavailable.
Utilize alternative delivery options: Consider using in-home delivery services, lockers, or pick-up points to avoid leaving packages unattended during busier times.
Q: I live in a house with a large front porch. How can I ensure my entire area is covered by a security camera for optimal package theft prevention?
A: If you have a large front porch, consider these options for optimal coverage:
Install a doorbell camera with a wide field of view: A strategically placed doorbell camera can capture a significant portion of your porch.
Consider a combination of cameras: Depending on the layout and size of your porch, you might need a combination of a doorbell camera and a strategically placed outdoor security camera to ensure complete coverage.
Explore camera options with pan-tilt-zoom capabilities: These cameras allow you to remotely adjust the viewing angle, providing more flexibility to cover your entire porch area.
Invest in a security system with multiple cameras: If you're looking for a comprehensive solution, consider a complete home security system with multiple cameras positioned to cover your entire property, including your front porch.
Q: Are there any privacy concerns associated with using security cameras to monitor my front porch?
A: While security cameras offer valuable benefits in preventing package theft, it's important to understand and address potential privacy concerns:
Check local laws: Familiarize yourself with any local laws or regulations regarding the use of security cameras, particularly concerning recording in public spaces like sidewalks or your neighbor's property.
Inform your neighbors: Out of courtesy, let your neighbors know you have a camera installed that might capture their property in the peripheral view.
Adjust camera angles: Ensure your camera angles are focused primarily on your own property and do not intrude on your neighbors' privacy.
Secure your footage: Store your camera footage securely in the cloud or on a local device, ensuring it's not accessible to unauthorized users.
By following these essential tips and considering security solutions like Kangaroo Doorbells, you can significantly reduce the risk of package theft and enjoy the convenience of home delivery with peace of mind. Remember, vigilance and proactive measures are key to safeguarding your deliveries and keeping your porch a safe haven for your packages.
