Protecting Your Deliveries from Porch Pirates

The holiday shopping season is in full swing. With a large percentage of shopping taking place online, theft of packages is becoming a big issue. Here are a few tips on protecting your deliveries from porch pirates.

1 – Select a Secure Delivery Location

If you are at work all day, leaving your packages on the front porch for hours at a time can increase the chances of theft. Consider a different, more secure, delivery address. For instance, if your work allows it, have your packages delivered there. If you have neighbors that are typically home, ask if you can use their address for deliveries. When buying from Amazon, consider using one of their Amazon Locker locations. Some carriers, such as Fedex, offer the option of holding your package at one of their locations.

2 – Install a Package Delivery Box

If you wish to avoid alternate delivery locations, you can install a delivery box right on your porch. These boxes can be bolted onto your porch and come with different options, such as a lock. Mention the box in your delivery instructions and include the lock combination, if applicable. These boxes are a nice option for smaller packages.

3 – Install a Security Camera

Thieves typically look for easy targets. Thus, installing security cameras on your property or even doorbell cameras can help deter theft. This is not a fool proof option, but it can help. Additionally, if you do have packages stolen, the footage can help catch thieves.

4 – Make Your Home Appear Occupied

Another way of protecting your deliveries from porch pirates is to make your home appear occupied. As we mentioned above, thieves generally seek easy targets. A seemingly unoccupied home is much easier to steal from than one where someone may be home to catch them. Keep your porch and driveway well lit. Additionally, put some interior lights on a timer.

Other Ways of Protecting Your Deliveries from Porch Pirates

Although there have been cases of cars following delivery trucks and stealing packages right after delivery, in most cases, packages are stolen when left unattended for longer periods of time. Most carriers provide estimates for delivery dates and even timeframes. Keep a close eye on the tracking so that you can make arrangements to retrieve items quickly. Some carriers even allow you to request a certain delivery timeframe. Take advantage of that option when needed. For valuable items being delivered, your best bet is to insure them. Carriers provide minimal insurance amounts, so you may need to purchase additional insurance for more expensive items. Another idea is to require signature confirmation for deliveries.

Having packages stolen is a pain, especially when you need to receive items before Christmas. By taking steps towards protecting your deliveries from porch pirates, you can avoid the hassle.