Amazon® Packages Top the List for Porch Pirates – Here's How to Keep Yours Safe

The holiday season brings joy - and an increase in package theft. With online shopping at an all-time high, “porch pirates” are ready to take advantage. According to Forbes, package theft costs an estimated $9 billion a year and rising. Here’s what you need to know to keep your deliveries safe this season.

1. Protecting Your Packages Starts With Delivery Scheduling

One of the easiest ways to deter package theft is by tracking deliveries and planning accordingly. Many retailers offer delivery tracking, allowing you to anticipate when packages will arrive so you can arrange to be home or to have a neighbor pick them up. These alternatives remove the risk of your packages being left unattended on your porch.

2. Install Security Cameras and Use Well-Lit Areas

Installing visible security cameras is a highly effective theft deterrent. Thieves tend to avoid homes with cameras, knowing they’re at a higher risk of being recorded and caught. If security cameras aren’t an option, ensuring that your porch or delivery area is well-lit can also help deter criminals. Motion-sensor lights are an affordable, easy-to-install option that could save your holiday shopping.

3. Shipping Packages to Your Workplace

Shipping packages to your workplace can be a smart way to prevent theft, as items will be delivered to a secure location rather than left unattended. Just confirm with your employer, especially during the busy holiday season when deliveries peak.

4. Use Alternative Delivery Options

Experts suggest choosing in-store or locker pickup options whenever possible. You can also consider renting a temporary P.O. box or using a shipping service with secure package lockers, especially for valuable items. With these alternative delivery options, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your gifts will stay safe.

5. Require a Signature for Extra Security

Requesting a signature for package deliveries adds a layer of protection, ensuring that your items aren’t left unattended. This option works best if you can arrange to be home to receive the delivery - if you can’t, it may mean playing a bit of tag with the carrier. However, the extra hassle may be worth it, as requiring a signature is a reliable way to keep your packages away from porch pirates.

Amazon^® and USPS: Top Targets for Package Theft

With package theft on the rise, Amazon and USPS shipments are particularly vulnerable.

Forbes reports that 52% of stolen packages come from Amazon, with clothing topping the list of items targeted by thieves, followed by books, toys, health and personal care products, and groceries.

USPS isn’t far behind, with 43% of stolen packages coming from that carrier. UPS^® and FedEx^® see far fewer incidents. Altogether, these numbers highlight the vast scale of package theft each year and the need for heightened security measures to protect deliveries.

Secure Your Holiday Season

By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your deliveries safe and out of the hands of porch pirates. Whether you’re opting for workplace delivery, installing security cameras or requiring a signature, these small steps can make a big difference in protecting your holiday purchases. Don’t let thieves dampen your celebrations - plan ahead to ensure your packages make it safely from the doorstep to under the tree this holiday!

References: How to protect yourself from package, mail theft this holiday season | Preventing package theft this holiday season | The Worst States For Porch Pirates 2024