As online shopping becomes more integral to modern life, package theft—more commonly known as porch piracy—has surged alongside it. While the convenience of having goods delivered to your doorstep is undeniable, the risk of someone swiping those packages before you get home is a growing problem. The issue becomes especially pronounced during the holiday season when the volume of deliveries spikes, and porch pirates are out in full force, ready to take advantage of unattended parcels.
Porch pirates thrive on opportunity, so the best defense is to minimize the time packages spend sitting outside. Most delivery services provide tracking updates, sometimes even down to the final stops before your package arrives. If your schedule allows, plan to be home during the delivery window to quickly secure your items. For those with less flexibility, asking a trusted neighbor to keep an eye out or grab the package can be a helpful safeguard. Delivery services also offer options like requiring a signature upon delivery, ensuring your package won’t be left unattended. However, while this method can protect high-value items, it may lead to missed deliveries if you’re not home, which could result in the package being returned or left at a local post office.
Building a good rapport with your local delivery drivers can also be a surprisingly effective deterrent. If you’re on friendly terms with the regular USPS or courier driver, you might request that packages be left in less conspicuous locations, such as behind a planter or near a side door. Even for those without consistent drivers, leaving a clear note with delivery instructions or utilizing any customization options provided by retailers can help ensure your packages are dropped in safer spots. That said, not all drivers will comply with such requests, so it’s wise to pair this strategy with additional precautions.
For a more robust solution, investing in a lockable package storage box can significantly reduce the chances of theft. These boxes, placed near your front door, allow delivery drivers to securely store your items out of sight and away from the elements. Many of these containers can be locked by the driver after delivery, adding an extra layer of protection. Be sure to include detailed instructions about the box’s location and usage when placing your orders, as this ensures the driver knows exactly what to do upon arrival.
Outdoor security systems are another excellent tool in combating porch piracy. Doorbell cameras and motion-activated security systems can alert you the moment someone approaches your front door. Some even allow for two-way communication, enabling you to provide delivery instructions or warn would-be thieves that they’re being recorded. Should a package be stolen, having a video record can be invaluable for law enforcement efforts. With these measures in place, you can stay one step ahead of the porch pirates while keeping your deliveries safe and sound.
