Online shopping is a staple in modern consumerism and current shopping behaviors. With a simple click of a button, consumers can have almost anything delivered to their front door step. From clothing, electronics, food, toys, and so much more, people seldom have to leave their homes in order to go shopping.
Americans have taken to online shopping years before the pandemic, but with the recent pandemic lockdowns and bouts of quarantine, it is at an all-time high. Amazon reports that profits have spike by $105.54 Billion in 2020 compared to 2019, then another $83.76 Billion in 2021. Needless to say, there won’t be any shortages of online shopping happening anytime soon. Unfortunately, that means that their also won’t be any shortages of package theft and porch piracy.
In the U.S. alone, 49 millions individuals have had at least on package stolen in the past 12 months, resulting in more than $2.4 Billion in stolen goods.
Porch pirates strike every type of community and vary widely between states, regardless of demographic factors. Whether you live in a slow, rural area or a condensed, bustling city block, you are likely to become a victim to package theft. Package thieves are always looking out for the next easy opportunity, follow these steps to prevent your packages and deliveries from being stolen.
1. Enhance Your Security Measures
Home security systems are becoming more affordable and easier to install then ever before. Doorbell cameras let you monitor your doorbell from any remote area. You’ll receive notifications to your phone every time the motion detector is triggered or when someone rings the doorbell. Other home security systems have a team of people monitoring the footage around the clock and will either notify you or the local police department if needed.
Some homeowners are opting for smart delivery boxes which remains locked unless opened by yourself or the courier. Some models have multiple ways of opening the box including a pin, camera access, or a traditional key. Tether the box to an anchor point around your home or weigh the container down with added weights to make theft difficult.
2. Choose Secure Delivery Locations
Various couriers have alternative delivery and pickup options available. FedEx and UPS offers hold for pickup where shoppers can opt to have their packages held at a local office for pickup. Amazon also offers an option where packages are delivered to one of the many lockers located throughout various retail locations. Some lockers are even located in gyms for added convenience. Amazon has recently implemented a system where couriers can deliver packages directly into your garage as an added measure to combat package theft.
Employ the help of your family or friendly neighbors to bring in packages for you, or have them delivered directly to their address. Larger companies have even chose to install Amazon and other courier lockers in their buildings to give their employees the convenience and ease of knowing that their packages are safe.
3. Hire Security Officers
If you live in an HOA or a residential complex, speak with the property manager or the leasing manager about hiring private security to patrol the area. Having a security presence in the area will deter thieves and other criminals from targeting your home.
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