Package theft: How to prevent porch pirates

What is a porch pirate?

Online shopping has been booming for decades now, and its combination of convenience and immediate delivery have been popular to order nearly everything like daily necessities, special and expensive gifts, and even cool secondhand finds.

However, it’s not without its risks. As soon as the delivery truck rolls to your address, your package is lying vulnerable in front of your doorstep or in the foyer of your apartment complex. A porch pirate is simply a thief who takes a package from your residence.

Package theft is therefore a crime of convenience because a package that’s sitting on your front steps might seem perfect to steal. Even if a thief doesn’t know what’s inside the package, the possibility that it contains something valuable or useful is worth the risk.

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Steps you can take to avoid package theft

Fortunately, with tracking technology and delivery confirmation, keeping tabs on your package has become easier than ever. Here are some tips that’ll reduce the likelihood of a porch pirate stealing your package:

• Opt for package tracking. When you order something online, it may cost slightly more to ask for a shipping service that includes a tracking number. However, the peace of mind will be worth it when it comes to preventing package theft—especially if the package contains a valuable item.
• Track your package online. Once you order a package from a major retailer, you will get a tracking number from a major delivery service such as the US Postal Service, UPS, or FedEx.
• Arrange for pickup. Be sure to specify what kind of package pickup will be at your address when the package arrives. For example, if you live in an apartment with a doorperson, specify the delivery service to leave the package with them so that there’ll be an extra pair of eyes keeping track of your package after it arrives.
• Deliver to a secure location. Many online services now offer the option of shipping your package to a shared location where you can pick it up using a customized code specifically for you. While this might not be as convenient as getting your package delivered to your doorstep, it can be much more secure to access your package in a special locker that’s in a public location or delivery access point.
• Require a signature on delivery. If you know you’re going to be home when a package is expected to arrive, ensure that you’ll be able to physically sign for the package in front of the delivery driver. This is the most secure way to confirm that a package has been delivered. Some sellers that ship valuable items will require a signature upon delivery, so make sure that you’ll be home on the estimated delivery date.

Prepare your home against package theft

If you live in a single-family home, you might be able to make modifications to keep your goods and your front porch more secure. Consider installing the following:

• Video doorbells. Today’s advanced doorbells include small cameras that can track and record whoever’s present when they ring your doorbell or stand within a certain view of it.
• Security cameras. Mount security cameras around your home or garage, especially by the front door. This ensures that you have a clear view of where packages are placed. The presence of security cameras can also deter thieves who might realize that they’re potentially being recorded.
• Floodlights. Often motion-activated, these can illuminate a driveway or front walkway in case someone arrives in the evening or at night. Not only can this create a sense of security for yourself, but the bright and sudden lights can also ward off potential criminals.
• Porch lockbox. Easily installable for both apartments and homes, this is a lockbox that can only be accessed by yourself and delivery drivers.

What to do if a package is stolen

Depending on the retailer you ordered from, you might be able to get a refund or a replacement item once your package is reported missing. Many of the most popular delivery services offer subscription options to track your package in detail, including phone and email alerts, the option to switch delivery locations at the last minute, and specifying delivery times that occur at your most convenient times. Some homeowner’s insurance plans also offer protection against package theft, though it might incur a premium on your existing plans.

Whether you’re living in an apartment in the heart of the city or are enjoying the pace of suburban or rural life, it’s worth it to make sure that your packages are safe from porch pirates. Check out more tips on how to organize your life so that everything arrives smoothly.