How to protect your deliveries from getting stolen by porch pirates

The holiday season is a time of joy and giving, but unfortunately, it can also be a time of anxiety and stress when it comes to package theft. Porch pirates are on the prowl, ready to snatch up your carefully delivered gifts right from your doorstep. In 2023 alone, a shocking 119 million packages were reported stolen, meaning that one in every 180 deliveries disappeared without a trace. Cities like Seattle, Memphis, and San Diego have become hot spots for these unfortunate heists, leaving many people feeling vulnerable and frustrated.

If you’ve ever experienced the sinking feeling of realizing that your package has been stolen, or if you’ve found yourself racing home to rescue a delivery, you’re not alone. But fear not, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a victim of package theft this holiday season. Here are some tips to help you keep your packages safe and secure:

1. Get security cameras: Installing security cameras around your home can help deter porch pirates and provide valuable footage in the event of a theft. Look for high-resolution cameras with night vision and motion detection capabilities to ensure that you capture clear images of any suspicious activity.

2. Use tracking apps: Take advantage of tracking services offered by shipping companies to monitor the status of your deliveries. Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed about when your packages are expected to arrive.

3. Make sure someone is home: Whenever possible, arrange to have someone at home to receive packages as soon as they are delivered. Consider working from home on days when important deliveries are expected, or coordinate with friends, family members, or neighbors to ensure that someone is available to accept your packages.

4. Coordinate with your neighbors: Join neighborhood porch pirate alerts on apps like Neighbors and Nextdoor to stay informed about local thefts. Make agreements with trusted neighbors to watch each other’s packages and enhance security in your community.

5. Have the package delivered somewhere else: If home delivery feels risky, consider having your packages sent to your workplace or to secure pickup locations offered by retailers and delivery services. Renting a P.O. Box or using services that hold packages for pickup can also provide added security.

6. Request a signature confirmation: Ask for a signature confirmation for your deliveries so that packages are not left unattended at your doorstep. This extra security measure may cost a bit more but can provide peace of mind that your packages will be safely received.

7. Send to remote pick-up locations: Take advantage of remote pick-up locations offered by delivery services, such as Amazon Lockers and pick-up counters. Retrieve your packages from these secure locations at your convenience to prevent theft.

8. Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery: Consider using Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery to have your packages securely placed inside your garage when you’re not home. This service offers added security and convenience for Amazon deliveries.

9. Provide a delivery box: Invest in a delivery box that allows packages to be securely dropped off and stored discreetly. Inform delivery personnel about using the box to ensure that your packages are safely received.

10. Sign up for delivery notifications: Enable delivery notifications from FedEx, UPS, and Amazon to receive alerts when your packages are delivered. Stay informed about the status of your deliveries to prevent theft.

By taking these proactive steps, you can protect your packages and enjoy a worry-free gift-giving experience this holiday season. Let’s keep those porch pirates at bay and ensure that every package arrives safely at your doorstep. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in safeguarding your deliveries and preserving the joy of the season.