Keep Your Holiday Deliveries Safe: Tips to Prevent Package Theft
It’s unfortunate that we have to plan around situations like package theft, especially during the holidays, but staying aware and taking a few simple precautions can go a long way in keeping your deliveries safe. With gift shipments and online orders at their peak, porch pirates are more active this time of year, and a little preparation can make all the difference.
Here are some easy ways to protect your deliveries this season:
Track your packages closely.
Sign up for delivery alerts so you know exactly when something arrives.
Bring packages inside promptly.
The less time a box sits on a porch, the fewer opportunities for theft.
Consider alternative delivery locations.
Have items delivered to your workplace (if allowed), to a trusted neighbor who’s home during the day, or to a secure package locker.
Use “hold for pickup” options.
USPS, UPS, FedEx, and Amazon all offer local pickup locations where you can retrieve packages at your convenience.
Add delivery instructions.
Ask drivers to place packages in a less visible location—behind a planter, on a side porch, or inside a screened area.
Install doorbell or exterior cameras.
Visible cameras can deter theft and provide helpful footage if something goes missing.
Keep your porch well lit.
Motion-activated lighting can discourage unwanted activity.
Build a neighborhood watch mindset.
Let trusted neighbors know when you’re expecting a delivery.
With a bit of awareness and preparation, you can help ensure that holiday cheer—not stolen packages—makes it to your doorstep. If you do experience package theft, remember to report it to Crime Check by calling (509) 456-2233 or file a theft report online here. You should also report the theft to the delivery carrier.
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