Porch pirates are a growing problem, and the numbers are staggering: In the past year alone, package theft cost Americans a whopping $12 billion, with 58 million people falling victim to stolen deliveries.
With online shopping at an all-time high, unattended packages have become an easy target for thieves, leaving homeowners and businesses frustrated, stressed, and out of pocket. The good news? Package theft can be preventable. In this article, you’ll discover 9 practical tips and proven security solutions to keep your deliveries safe and stop porch pirates in their tracks.
1. Schedule Deliveries for When You’re Home
One of the simplest ways to avoid stolen packages is to be home when they arrive. Many delivery services, including Amazon, UPS, and FedEx, allow you to select specific delivery windows or days when you’ll be available.
Services like Amazon’s “Key In-Garage Delivery” give delivery drivers temporary access to place packages securely inside your garage.
2. Enable Delivery Notifications
Most delivery companies offer text, email, or app alerts to notify you when a package is on its way and when it’s been delivered. By staying informed, you can quickly retrieve your packages and minimize the chance of theft.
Why It Matters: According to recent surveys, many package thefts occur within minutes of delivery, so speed is key.
3. Install a Video Doorbell Camera
Video doorbell cameras are one of the most effective ways to deter porch pirates. These devices allow you to see who’s at your door in real time, capture footage of suspicious activity, and even communicate with delivery drivers.
Benefits:
- Real-time notifications of motion at your front door.
- High-quality footage that can assist law enforcement in identifying suspects.
4. Use Security Cameras to Monitor Your Property
Visible security cameras act as a strong deterrent to thieves who think twice before approaching a home under surveillance. Place cameras in high-visibility areas to make it clear your property is being watched.
For even better results, pair cameras with 24/7 professional monitoring services to keep your property protected around the clock.
5. Require a Signature for Delivery
When ordering valuable items, opt for the “signature required” delivery option. This ensures packages are only handed over to someone at the address and won’t be left unattended.
If you’re unavailable, many carriers allow you to reschedule delivery for a more convenient time.
6. Use Package Lockers or Secure Delivery Boxes
Consider investing in secure package lockers or delivery boxes for your home. Options like the Yale Smart Delivery Box or similar solutions allow delivery drivers to securely drop packages into a lockable container.
Additionally, services like Amazon Locker and UPS Access Points let you pick up packages at secure locations, reducing the risk of theft entirely.
7. Team Up with Your Neighbors
Neighbors can be a great first line of defense against package theft. If you trust your neighbors, ask them to keep an eye out for deliveries and bring packages inside when you’re not home.
Consider using apps like Nextdoor to stay informed about local porch pirate activity.
8. Install Motion-Sensor Lights
Most package theft happens during the day, but if you receive deliveries in the evening, a well-lit entryway can deter criminals. Installing motion-sensor lights is a simple and affordable DIY option that can make a big difference.
9. Protect Deliveries with Smart Access Control
Smart access systems are becoming increasingly popular for package protection. With smart locks or garage door access systems, delivery drivers can securely place packages inside your home, garage, or office.
How It Works:
- Provide delivery drivers with one-time access codes.
- Monitor access remotely through a connected app.
Why Protecting Your Packages Matters
Protecting your packages isn’t just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind. With 58 million Americans impacted by package theft, proactive security measures are no longer optional. Here’s how Frase Protection can help you take the next step in securing your home and deliveries.
Take Control of Package Theft with Smart Solutions
Package theft is a growing concern, but you can take control of your deliveries by following these 9 proven tips and investing in reliable security solutions.
At Frase Protection, we specialize in advanced security systems—from video doorbells and security cameras to smart access controls and 24/7 monitoring—to protect your packages, your home, and your peace of mind.
Don’t let package theft ruin your day. Contact Frase Protection today for a free consultation, and let us help you find the perfect solution to keep your property safe and secure.
