Protecting Your Packages from Porch Pirates
We recently posted to our Instagram (connect with us at rapidgroup.ga) some information about porch pirates. What is porch piracy? What can you do about it? Let’s explore this form of theft and how you can prevent it from happening to you.
Porch piracy is a kind of theft, typically larceny-theft involving taking of someone else’s property without permission, in this case, packages off your porch, stoop, doorstep or building foyer, etc. (The difference between theft and burglary is that theft does not involve entrance into a structure or building, whereas, burglary is an unlawful entry into a building or structure.) Porch pirates look for unattended packages left on doorsteps by delivery companies; in some cases, follow delivery trucks and wait for the package to be delivered.
Porch pirates become very active during the holidays but has this kind of theft has become more common crime in recent years. During the pandemic with online shopping and home deliveries, porch pirates struck in record numbers.
Unattended Packages are Targets
Generally, any delivery can be targeted, but major retail boxes are most commonly taken. Because retailers use boxes and packing tape to self-advertise, these deliveries are easily identified. Sometimes, porch pirates will take a box “just because” regardless of what’s inside.
Low Solvability Rate
It’s estimated that only about 10-20% of porch pirates are caught. Even with security cameras, most of them are able to steal the package and make a quick getaway. Even with footage, if the porch pirate is wearing a hat, sunglasses or hoodie, it’s difficult to identify the person. Local law enforcement often lack resources to devote to apprehending individual thieves. Solvability of this crime is decreased even more because many homes don’t have security cameras.
Protecting Your Deliveries From Porch Pirates
Secured Delivery Service. Some retailers offer consumers a secure delivery service, where you authorize delivery drivers access to your garage or home so they can leave your boxes inside. Depending on the retailer, you may need specific smart locks or smart garage door controllers; these services leverage technology to enable secure access, and to monitor the delivery (with a security camera connected device).
Security Cameras and Video Door Bells. Security cameras or video doorbells are great security layers to deter porch piracy and other crimes. You can monitor your doorway and get an alert if there is any activity, then record anything that happens. Visible security cameras alone helps thieves decide NOT to steal anything as your property is no long an easy target.
Porch Lockbox. If you have enough space, installing a lockbox (that’s bolted to the structure) is an alternative place for drivers to leave your package. This works for packages and boxes only as big as your lockbox will fit and only if you have enough space. Lockboxes come in many shapes, and locking capabilities to suit different needs.
Delivery Options. Some delivery services (UPS, Fedex, and UPSP offer special services) allow you to set instructions to leave your package in a specific location, maybe someplace more hidden, secure, or with a neighbor. Common places include behind shrubs, at a back door not easily accessible, or on the side of your house – this keeps the delivery out of plain view.
- If you go on vacation, place your deliveries on hold or reschedule them, if you’re able to. Some local merchants are delivery partners and have agreed to accept deliveries for customers. Both Fedex and UPS have such arrangements you can look into; some services are free, some require a fee.
- Take advantage of a delivery “locker” or counter (Amazon has hub lockers all over most towns and cities in places like banks, stores, pharmacies, etc.). These pick up locations are self-serve lockers, which look a lot like a bus terminal locker; counters like Amazon pick up counters are usually staffed (Amazon has partnered with Whole Foods Market for this service.)
- Depending on where you work, you may be able to have personal packages delivered to your workplace. Someone will be there to receive it removing the risk of theft. Use caution with your work policy, package size, and ordering frequency.
- Partner with a trusted neighbor if they are home at the time deliveries happen. Ask them to pick up the delivery and hold it for you until you get home, or put it somewhere safe on your property.
Stay Informed. Many delivery services now use an app or SMS alert to let you know a delivery is on its way, allowing you to adjust your schedule to be there when it arrives. They also send a photo from the driver to show you where the package was left. You can also require a tracking number and track your delivery online or via the delivery service app.
Require a Signature Confirmation for Delivery. Requiring a signature to receive the package adds another layer of security against theft – but it also means you or someone else needs to be at home to accept the package.
Porch piracy is a problem that affects many neighborhoods. Implementing one or several of these tactics can be effective in protecting and/or detering packages from being stolen. Be proactive with home security systems, specify delivery instructions, and collaboration with neighbors can reduce the risk of victimization.
Rapid International offers package retrieval services as part of our patrol operation. We’ll move or store your delivery for you. We’re committed to building a safer community together, so let’s work together soon.
Rapid International Offers Community Solutions
Safety, Community, Together. Rapid International provides security services, including staffed areas and patrol services, prioritizing neighborhood-based security in collaboration with your community. Rapid’s management has extensive experience in the security industry and in each city, we build partnerships with local law enforcement and emergency service agencies. Together with community members, we work to make people and communities safe and secure.
Please get in touch to learn about our community-level security program – we believe the strength of collaboration and partnership make neighborhoods safer for everyone. In Georgia, call: (706) 844-2586, in California call: (213) 364-1394 or email us at info@therapidway.com.
Our character is what we do when we think no one is looking.
H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
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