Don’t Let Porch Pirates Steal Your Holiday Cheer

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and… online shopping. That familiar thrill of seeing a “Your package has been delivered!” notification can quickly turn to disappointment when you arrive home to an empty porch. Package theft is a growing problem, and brazen “porch pirates” see the holiday season as their prime time. But don’t worry—you don’t have to leave your precious deliveries to chance. With a few proactive steps, you can secure your packages and ensure your gifts make it safely under the tree. Here are seven effective ways to keep porch pirates from ruining your holiday.

1. Get a Clear View with a Video Doorbell or Security Camera

This is the single most effective deterrent you can install. Porch pirates are opportunistic; they look for easy targets. A visible camera signals that they are being watched and recorded.

• Video Doorbells: These devices replace your existing doorbell and send an alert to your phone when someone approaches your door, allowing you to see and even speak to them in real time.
• Security Cameras: Placed to overlook your porch, driveway, and other entry points, these cameras provide a wider field of view. Modern systems offer features like motion-activated recording, night vision, and cloud storage.

Pro-Tip: A visible camera not only deters thieves but also provides crucial evidence for the police and shipping carriers if a package does go missing.

2. Take Control with Delivery Management Services

Most major shipping carriers offer free services that give you incredible control over your incoming packages. You can track shipments in real-time, get delivery window estimates, and even reroute packages while they’re in transit.

Sign up for these free services:

• UPS My Choice®
• FedEx Delivery Manager®
• USPS Informed Delivery®

With these tools, you can reschedule a delivery for a day you’ll be home or redirect a package to your office or a trusted neighbor’s house.

3. Use a Secure Drop-Off Location

If you know you won’t be home, why have the package delivered there at all? Retailers and shipping companies have created a network of secure locations where you can have your items sent for free.

• Amazon Hub Lockers: These self-serve kiosks are located in convenience stores, supermarkets, and apartment buildings. You receive a unique code to open the locker and retrieve your package at your convenience.
• Carrier Access Points: Both UPS and FedEx have networks of local businesses (like pharmacies or grocery stores) that will hold your packages securely for you to pick up.
• Ship to Store: Many large retailers offer the option to buy online and pick up your order in-store, completely eliminating the risk of porch theft.

4. Invest in a Package Lock Box

For those who receive frequent deliveries, a permanent solution might be the best investment. A package lock box is a large, secure container that you install on your porch. Delivery drivers can place packages inside, but only you can retrieve them with a key or a code. They come in various sizes and styles to match your home’s aesthetic. Think of it as a personal Fort Knox for your deliveries.

5. Lean on Your Community

Sometimes the best security system is a good neighbor. If you have a trusted neighbor who is home during the day, ask if they’d be willing to hold onto packages for you. This low-tech solution is incredibly effective.

You can also join neighborhood watch groups or use apps like Neighbors by Ring or Nextdoor to stay informed about suspicious activity in your area. When a community looks out for one another, everyone is safer.

6. Require a Signature for High-Value Items

For expensive or irreplaceable items, this is a must. When you select “Signature Confirmation” or “Signature Required” at checkout, the delivery driver cannot leave the package without someone signing for it. If no one is home, they will leave a note and attempt redelivery later or hold it at their local facility for pickup. It might cost a few extra dollars, but the peace of mind is priceless.

7. Be Smart with Your Trash

You’ve successfully received your new 65-inch TV or the latest gaming console. Don’t advertise your new goodies to the world! Leaving large, branded boxes out by the curb for trash day is like putting up a sign that says, “Expensive new electronics inside!”

Break down boxes, turn them inside out, or cut them into smaller pieces to conceal what was inside before putting them in your recycling bin.

What to Do If Your Package Is Stolen Anyway

Even with precautions, theft can happen. If you suspect you’re a victim:

1. Confirm Delivery: Double-check your tracking information to confirm the carrier marked it as delivered.
2. Contact the Retailer: Most companies have policies for stolen packages and will often ship a replacement or issue a refund. Start here.
3. File a Claim with the Carrier: Let the shipping company (UPS, FedEx, etc.) know about the theft.
4. File a Police Report: This is crucial. It creates an official record and helps law enforcement track patterns of theft in your area. Your video camera footage will be invaluable here.

Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season

By taking a few of these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of package theft. Protect your purchases, secure your gifts, and focus on what truly matters—enjoying a peaceful and happy holiday season with your loved ones.