Keeping Your Holiday Packages Safe

The holiday season brings cheer, celebrations, and an unfortunate rise in package theft. Porch pirates - individuals who steal packages directly from people's doorsteps - are particularly active during the holiday season because online shopping tends to spike, leading to millions in lost goods each year. In 2023, porch pirates cost consumers and businesses an estimated $9 billion by looting more than 115 million packages. According to ADT, it is estimated that at least 43% of Americans have had at least one package stolen from their front porch. How can you help prevent your packages from falling into the wrong hands? Here are some strategies to consider.

1. Choose Alternative Delivery Options: Many retailers now offer options for customers who want to avoid having packages left on their doorsteps. Look for in-store pick-up options if the retailer has a physical location near to you. Also consider lockers or parcel services such as Amazon Locker, FedEx Hold at Location, and UPS Access Points. A third option is to have packages delivered to your workplace - if it's feasible and allowed by your workplace. Having packages delivered there can provide an extra layer of security, as well as keeping packages away from the prying eyes of children!

2. Install a Doorbell Camera: Video doorbells have surged in popularity, and they are a strong deterrent against porch pirates. Research shows that security cameras can reduce thefts by 50% or more. Many doorbell cameras have features like motion detection to alert you whenever someone approaches, two-way audio to communicate with delivery drivers (or potential thieves), and cloud storage for reviewing any incidents. Brands like Ring, Arlo, and Google Nest offer affordable options, and many now integrate with smart home systems for added convenience.

3. Use Package Lockboxes: Lockboxes provide a secure container for deliveries. You can either purchase a lockbox specifically designed for packages, or you can create a DIY version. Look for a box that can be secured and includes instructions for delivery drivers to leave packages inside.

4. Provide Special Delivery Instructions: Many carriers let you leave specific instructions for your delivery. You can request that packages be left in a safer location, such as behind a gate, in the backyard, by a side entrance, or hidden behind a larger object near the door. While this might not completely prevent theft, it can reduce the package's visibility to those simply walking by.

5. Track Your Deliveries: Almost all major carriers, including USPS, FedEx, and UPS, offer detailed tracking for packages. With tracking notifications, you can monitor the progress of your delivery and make arrangements to pick it up immediately after arrival. Some companies even offer delivery window notifications, so you'll know within a few hours when it will arrive.

6. Get to Know Your Neighbors: Porch pirates rely on the anonymity of neighborhoods. If you are on good terms with your neighbors, you could ask them to keep an eye out for your packages and notify you if they see anything suspicious. Likewise, be vigilant for your neighbors' deliveries if they are away. You might even arrange to take in packages for each other when one of you isn't home.

7. Request Signature on Delivery: One of the most reliable ways to ensure your package makes it into the right hands is to request a signature upon delivery. While this can be a bit inconvenient, it guarantees the package will not be left unattended on your porch.

According to data compiled by shipping logistics analysts at Pitney-Bowes, 58 million packages per day were shipped to addresses across the United States in 2022; that's 674 deliveries per second! As porch piracy continues to grow, take a few extra steps to reduce the chances of your holiday joy being spoiled by thieves. Happy holiday shopping, and may all your packages arrive safely!