Online shopping’s rise has brought a well-known issue—package theft. Every day, millions of packages are delivered, raising the chance of theft from porches. More than 30% of Americans have had packages stolen, costing about $140 per theft. By adding safety steps to what you do daily, you can fight this problem. It greatly lowers the chance of thieves stealing your parcels.
Key Takeaways
- Over 31 percent of Americans have experienced package theft.
- The average value of a stolen package is $140.
- Only around 11 percent of package thieves have been caught.
- Popular metro areas for package theft include San Francisco, Salt Lake City, and Portland.
- Amazon handles nearly 50 percent of its own deliveries.
The Importance of Hiding Packages on Your Porch
Package theft has become a big problem, especially during holidays. More than 43% of Americans have had a package stolen at least once. This shows how important it is to hide your packages well. Thieves, known as porch pirates, are more active during the holiday season, making it a risky time for deliveries. Also, 41% of people sometimes skip online shopping because they fear theft.
Keeping your deliveries safe is not just about protecting your money. It’s also about keeping your personal information private and making sure your packages arrive safely. With billions of people shopping online, the risk of theft is huge. This means we need to take steps to protect our deliveries.
Hiding your packages makes it less likely for thieves to spot something tempting. About 60% of them are lured by visible valuable items, like gadgets. By hiding your deliveries, you greatly lower the chance of them being stolen.
Last year, around 1.7 million packages went missing each day, leading to over $25 million in lost goods and services. Doing simple things like drawing your blinds can cut down the chance of a break-in by 30%. This is because thieves can’t see into your house as easily.
Creative Ways to Conceal Packages
Being smart about where you hide your packages can trick porch pirates. You can use decorative bins to keep your porch neat and your packages hidden. These bins look good and help stop theft. Also, putting your packages behind furniture or among plants can keep them safe without being too noticeable.
You can also use gadgets like motion-sensor lights from Baxia Technology. These lights have over 800 top ratings on Amazon. They scare off thieves by lighting up when they detect movement. Here are some top ways and tools to keep your parcels secure and cut down on theft:
| Method | Description | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Decorative Bins | Posh bins that blend with porch decor | High |
| Porch Furniture | Hide behind chairs or benches | Moderate |
| Natural Landscaping | Use plants and shrubs as concealment | Moderate |
| Motion-Sensor Lights | Lights activate upon detecting movement | High |
| Video Doorbells | Like the Ring Video Doorbell with night vision | Very High |
Another way to keep your packages safe is using Amazon Key. This service requires a Home Kit, which comes with a smart lock and camera. This lets couriers securely deliver inside your home or car. Some people get delivery boxes like the Feliluke Package Delivery Box to lower the risk of theft. Mixing and matching these tactics can keep your packages secure.
Utilizing Technology for Delivery Safety
Online shopping has soared, but so has package theft. Around 1 in 4 young adults know someone who’s faced porch piracy. This issue costs people $19.5 billion every year. Thankfully, smart tech like video doorbells and cameras can make your deliveries safer.
Devices like the Ring or Arlo Video Doorbell let you watch your front door anytime. They scare off about 87% of would-be burglars who think you have a security system. Plus, they’re not too expensive, with plenty of options under $150.
Adding cameras to your mailbox sensors can instantly tell you when a package arrives or if someone tries to take it. Tracking apps help too, making it easier to protect your packages. Knowing when your delivery comes means you can pick it up fast, lowering theft chances.
Did you know 83% of burglars check if you have a security system first? That’s why showing off your security tech helps. Many delivery services also let you sign for packages, keeping them from being left out. Together with tech, these steps help keep your items safe.
Using new tech for package safety is smart. It keeps you calm and fits with the trend of smart homes. Since 65% of customers want safe delivery choices, these gadgets are a great answer. Staying ahead of thieves means getting creative with tech.
Strategic Placement of Packages
It’s important to hide your packages and keep them safe. Telling your delivery service where to put them helps a lot. For example, asking them to hide packages behind a bench or in a planter can stop theft.
Using signs to give instructions might not work well because delivery people often miss them. Engraved signs are more durable but can be costly. Also, laminating a sign at FedEx costs about $3.75, which might be too much for updating signs often.
Using lockable boxes or bags for deliveries is a good idea. They keep your packages safe until you can get them. Some delivery services will hold your package for you to pick up. But if you’re busy or work full-time, it might not be convenient.
Knowing how burglars think is key to protecting your packages. For instance, many burglars steal electronics or personal items like keys and jewelry. So, it’s important to keep your deliveries out of sight.
To keep your home safe, installing security cameras is a good move. Cameras should be placed 8 to 10 feet high to watch over entryways well. Cameras can either stop thieves or show you have valuables. Either way, they’re vital for security.
| Strategy | Details |
|---|---|
| Engraved Signage | Durable and customizable, but costs can vary. |
| Lockable Delivery Boxes | Secure holding area for packages. |
| “Hold for Pick Up” | Convenient, though accessibility varies by location. |
| Security Cameras | Install at 8-10 feet height for maximum coverage. |
Communicating with Delivery Services
Talking well with delivery services is key for safe package delivery. Giving clear instructions helps avoid theft, especially in cities like Seattle, Memphis, and San Diego where it’s a big issue. Telling them when you or a neighbor will be there helps keep your packages safe.
Amazon Day Delivery for Prime members lets you get all your orders in one day, reducing trips. Amazon Lockers or pickup counters are secure options to pick up your stuff. For pricey items, Amazon’s In-Garage Delivery is safe but costs $1.99 outside of Amazon Day.
Use tracking apps from delivery companies. They alert you when your package arrives so you or a neighbor can get it quickly. Asking for a signature when your package is delivered also ensures it’s not left alone.
Insuring expensive packages gives you financial protection if they’re stolen. Amazon and Best Buy will refund or resend missing packages after delivery alerts. Adding these tips and clear delivery instructions makes package delivery safer.
Tips for Regular Porch Maintenance
Keeping your porch tidy is key for your home’s safety and discourages theft. A clean and organized porch shows your home is cared for and less appealing to burglars. Always clear your porch of clutter and trash to maintain its welcoming and secure vibe.
Good outdoor furniture can make your porch both pretty and practical. Remember not to fill the space too much. Expect to spend $300 to $1,500 for quality pieces. Though furniture can hide packages, it’s better to keep your porch neat and uncluttered.
Lighting is essential for a safe porch. Lights can lower crime by up to 30%. Use motion-sensitive lights and keep them working well. Adding smart locks and cameras boosts security even more. Smart locks can make users 40% happier. Signs that you’re watching may scare off thieves.
Talking with neighbors helps keep your porch and home safe. A watchful area can boost the reporting of weird activities by 25%. Staying in touch helps everyone know about dangers, making the neighborhood safer. A secure box, like the Porch Box®, protects your packages with its strong build and lockable top.
