Package theft has become a widespread issue affecting many households across the nation. In fact, studies show that roughly 36 percent of Americans have fallen victim to this crime. This statistic highlights the severity of this issue and the need to develop effective strategies to combat it.
Understanding who package thieves are and what makes a home a target can help you take the necessary steps to protect your packages and deter these “porch pirates.”
Common Targets for Porch Pirates
Due to higher foot traffic, apartment buildings or communities are at high risk for package theft incidents. This is particularly true for multifamily dwellings, where packages are often left in common areas that are easily accessible to thieves.
Easily accessible front porches are another common target for package thieves. These areas provide a tempting opportunity for criminals to quickly grab packages and disappear before anyone notices. The front door, porch or even a back door can all be potential targets if they are visible and easily accessible.
Knowing common targets for porch pirates can allow you to take specific measures to secure these vulnerable areas and make your home less appealing to potential thieves.
Enhance Your Home Security System
Improving your home security system can be highly effective in deterring package thieves. Implementing various security enhancements such as installing video cameras or doorbells, using motion-activated lights and setting up visible security cameras can create a strong defense against package theft.
- Install security cameras or video doorbells. In addition to allowing you to monitor deliveries in real time, these devices may deter potential thieves. And, if a theft does occur, cameras or video doorbells can provide crucial evidence.
- Use motion-activated lights. These lights enhance visibility and may scare off would-be thieves by illuminating areas where packages are delivered, making it harder for them to operate unnoticed.
- Set up a visible security camera. Making security cameras visible can signal to criminals that the property is monitored, increasing their perceived risk of getting caught and deterring them from stealing.
Smart Package Delivery Options
Smart delivery options, such as Amazon Lockers and package parcels, can offer innovative solutions to help prevent package theft.
- Use secure pickup locations. Amazon Lockers, Amazon Counters, P.O. boxes and FedEx or UPS pickup locations are all convenient options that allow you to have items delivered to secure locations, which can be particularly useful when ordering valuable items. These services can protect your deliveries from theft by ensuring your packages are secure and accessible at your convenience.
- Utilize package delivery boxes. A porch lock box can provide a secure solution for storing packages until you can retrieve them, along with offering protection from the elements. Smart boxes can notify you when a delivery is made and allow you to remotely lock the box or unlock it to allow for another delivery.
- Use package parcels. Like porch lock boxes, in multifamily dwellings, smart package lockers can send notifications to residents when a package is delivered and ensure a greater level of security through features like live video access and remote unlocking.
Other Practical Steps to Secure Your Packages
Taking practical steps to secure your packages can make a significant difference in preventing theft and ensuring your items reach you safely.
- Require signature for delivery. Requiring a signature ensures that someone is physically present to receive the package, preventing it from being left unattended and potentially stolen.
- Track your package. Utilizing package tracking tools provided by the deliverer allows you to promptly retrieve deliveries, minimizing the risk of theft. Additionally, verifying with the delivery company that the package was indeed delivered before assuming it was stolen can prevent unnecessary stress.
- Leave instructions for delivery drivers. Providing specific instructions to a delivery driver increases the likelihood of secure package placement. You can ask drivers to leave packages in secure, concealed areas, such as behind furniture or in designated package delivery boxes.
- Coordinate with trusted neighbors. Your neighbors can be a valuable resource in ensuring your packages are safely received. If porch piracy is a concern, consider enlisting a trusted neighbor to accept deliveries on your behalf.
- Schedule deliveries when you’re home. If possible, scheduling deliveries for times you are at home can greatly reduce the risk of package theft. Ensuring that someone is present to receive deliveries is one of the most effective ways to protect your packages from theft.
What do I do if my package is stolen?
If your package has been stolen, it’s important to take immediate action. Following the proper steps increases the chances of recovering your package and can help prevent future theft. Steps to take if this occurs include:
- Verify delivery. First, check with neighbors to ensure that your package was not misdelivered. If your package is missing, report the theft to the sender and the delivery company.
- Check security footage. Review footage from your security camera or video doorbell to verify that the package was delivered and then stolen. Video evidence offers important proof for law enforcement and should be shared with the authorities if theft is confirmed.
- Contact the shipping company. Contact the shipper as soon as possible if you suspect package theft. The sender is generally required to initiate a claim for a stolen package, but since there is often a time limit for this process, acting quickly is important. Make sure to document any relevant information, such as tracking numbers, delivery times and claim submission receipts.
- Contact local authorities. After verifying delivery status, checking home security cameras and contacting the shipper, you may want to file a police report. This ensures that authorities are aware of the theft and it may lead to the recovery of your package.
- Consult your insurance agent about filing a claim for expensive items. Depending on your policy terms, your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance may cover stolen packages. However, this coverage is only useful for high-value packages that are worth more than your deductible. Even if this is the case, you should consult your insurance advisor before filing a claim, since this has the potential to increase your policy premiums long-term.
How Higginbotham Can Help Protect Your Home
As one of the largest independent insurance brokerages in the United States, Higginbotham offers a range of services to help protect your home and belongings, including homeowners’ and renters’ insurance. If you need help protecting what matters most to you, talk to one of Higginbotham’s personal insurance specialists today.
