It’s that time of year when online shopping is at an all-time high. Unfortunately, it’s not just shoppers who enjoy the convenience of online ordering. Criminals who swoop in and steal packages from front porches and doorsteps – aka “porch pirates”- are a growing problem.
We’re here to give you some tips on how to keep all those Amazon packages safe by preventing package theft.
How do you stop porch pirates from stealing your packages?
1. Install Ring Doorbells or a Security System
Extra home security doesn’t hurt! Installing a door bell camera or outdoor systems around your porch or garage is a great way to keep tabs on your house at all times. Video door bell evidence will be helpful in the incident of someone stealing your packages.
2. Consider Alternative Delivery and Shipping Options
Nowadays there are many alternative options available to have your packaged delivered. Amazon, FedEx, USPS, UPS all have alternative pickup and delivery options, even to their own warehouse. Make sure to be proactive and sign up for tracking with delivery alert notifications!
Tip: Another option to make sure you receive your packages is to check to see if your company allows you to ship your packages to your office address. Routing your packages to your office address will help lessen the probability that your package will be stolen.
3. Ask Your Neighbor to Grab Packages
If your neighbor or friend is home or in the area, ask if they can keep an eye out for your package or wait for it to arrive. Keep in mind joining neighborhood groups like Nextdoor help you stay updated on if there is suspicious activity happening in your neighborhood.
4. Make It Seem Like You Are Home
Criminals swoop in when they see the coast is clear and no one looks to be home. Installing automatic light timers or flood lights can help scare away the “porch pirates.”
5. Leave a Note for the Delivery Driver
Leave a note for the delivery driver to place your package in a discreet location, maybe behind a bush, behind a fence or to the side of the home. Then your package will be less visible from onlookers passing on the street.
