The holidays are around the corner and even though porch pirates pop up all the time, they seem to be the most active during the holidays. Because people are at home and shopping online more, these porch pirates know boxes and packages contain clothes, electronics, home goods, jewelry, and other valuables. Packages sitting on your porch or in your apartment lobby make them easy targets for theft.
A Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute study found that package theft is at an all-time high, with 1.7 million packages stolen or lost every day in the U.S. This year, PCMag surveyed 1,500 people and about 25 percent are concerned about having their packages stolen. To combat porch piracy, 28 percent have a security camera and 25 percent have a video doorbell.
Besides the theft itself, crime like this increase personal fear and feelings of vulnerability, and definitely dampen the holidays. Some of these porch pirates form sophisticated rings, following delivery trucks and swooping in as soon as the packages are delivered. Whether you opt for DIY or professional security camera and alarm system, here are seven ways to protect your packages from porch pirates.
Cameras and Video Doorbells
Security cameras and video doorbells are a good way to monitor your porch and can deter thieves. The camera takes footage of the porch pirate, tho the quality of services varies. Depending on your home and front door area, the set up may not be as effective if the camera is not visible – this visibility is your best best for deterrence.
Parcel Boxes
A locked delivery box is a good way to secure packages from porch pirates, though your box is still in plain site and there are limitations depending on the space near your doorway. These boxes come in a variety of designs, sizes and locks (the delivery service will need access to the key or code). To prevent the entire box being carried off, some boxes can be bolted to the porch for additional security.
Smart Locks
A smart delivery box lock can “upgrade” your delivery box as these types of locks use mobile apps, bluetooth connection and scanners for easy access.
Secure Amazon Delivery Services
If an Amazon Hub is located to your home or work, these secured units offer a safe place to store Amazon packages until you pick them up.
If you’re comfortable with Amazon accessing your garage or electronic gate, Key by Amazon allows them to leave your delivery inside if you’re not home. The services uses an app to schedule deliveries with other requirements and limitations depending on your geographic area, garage, gates, etc.
Delivery Alerts
Sign up for delivery tracking and alerts so you know where a package is in transit and when it’s been delivered. You’ll know what time it was dropped off and where it was left – though if it’s still at your front door, this won’t deter potential thieves. You can also specify delivery instructions, such as where to leave your package, when you place your order.
Ship Packages to the Office
One of the safer options is to have your packages delivered to the office. However, if you work in a high-rise, delivery could be delayed or misplaced and juggling several boxes from your office to your car, the Metro, bus, etc. could be a consideration. You should also make sure your company allows you to receive personal mail at the office.
Safe Neighbor
A trusted neighbor may be able to take in packages while you’re away. There are a lot of considerations to this – your neighbor’s availability, taking in and keeping your items, picking up the packages when it’s convenient for you both, and other logistics. Reciprocating with your neighbor will also lessen the theft threat for you both.
Package tracking, DIY and professional home security features, along with other solutions like a close neighbor will help keep your deliveries safer and keep porch pirates at bay. At California Metro Patrol, our goal is to create a safe community. We believe that the presence of marked patrol vehicles on your street deters porch pirates and other types of offenders from your home and neighborhood. We’re always happy to give you a no-obligation quote and find a security option that fits your needs. You can also call us at 888-788-0813.
For more porch pirate and valuable home security information, MilitaryHomeSearch.com gives a comprehensive assessment guide to help you make your home more secure.
