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Americans and Canadians love going online to shop, especially during the holidays, when millions head to their phones and laptops in search of the perfect gifts for friends and family. Unfortunately, having the item delivered to the right address doesn’t guarantee you (or they) will receive it.
Package thieves, also known as “porch pirates,” often take advantage of an opportunity and may target a neighborhood several times before moving on. They often look for homes with a quick in-and-out route, especially when the spot where packages are delivered is close to the street and easy to see.
Because package theft is a crime of opportunity, the best way to prevent it depends on where you live, the type of home and the community. Still, consumers can use these strategies to discourage porch pirates no matter where they live.
BBB provides these pro tips to prevent package theft:
- Don’t leave packages unattended.
- If you’re expecting a package, try to schedule its delivery for a time when you know you’ll be home.
- Ask your neighbors if they’d be willing to hold packages for you if you plan to be gone for an extended time.
- Some retailers offer garage or in-home delivery so packages don’t sit out in the open.
- Ship to a store, pickup location or post office box.
- If you’re buying from a retailer with a store near your home, consider shipping your order there instead. Retailers require proof of purchase or identification before releasing packages.
- Some online retailers offer delivery to a pickup location inside another store near you. Check your delivery options when you order.
- If porch pirates are common in your area, consider renting a post office box for package deliveries. The cost may be worth the peace of mind.
- Use a security camera.
- A home security system with cameras or a video doorbell can deter package theft, especially when it’s easy to see. Consider adding a sign that says the home is under video surveillance.
- Set up camera alerts so you know exactly when a package arrives.
- If a package is stolen, video footage can help law enforcement find the thief. Before you buy, research the device and understand the risks of internet-connected devices.
- Require a signature.
- Many delivery companies let you require a signature before they leave a package, so you take possession of it as soon as it arrives. This works well for expensive items and for people who are often home, but it can make deliveries harder if your schedule doesn’t match the carrier’s.
- Check the delivery company’s policy for packages no one signs for. Some return the package to the sender after a set number of attempts.
- Opt in to delivery notifications.
- Most retailers send tracking details with links to the delivery service, and some send their own emails when a package arrives. Opt in to shipping emails.
- Set reminders on your phone for the expected delivery date and time.
For more information
If your package is stolen, file a report with your local police department and the delivery company. Depending on the carrier, it may offer insurance or other policies to reimburse your loss.
For more online shopping resources and tips, visit BBB.org/OnlineShopping.
Report scams to BBB Scam Tracker.