6 Ways to Prevent Package Theft

• July 1, 2020
• by Carlos Lopez

By 2024, retail e-commerce sales will reach a whopping $476 billion in the U.S. alone. With this sweeping change in consumer behavior comes a silent threat that’s also on the rise: package theft.

According to researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 1.7 million packages are stolen or lost in the U.S. every day, with the average stolen package valued between $50-$100.

Those unlucky enough to experience package theft know that retailers and delivery companies are rarely liable for stolen packages. This lack of liability means that the responsibility rests on homeowners to take proactive steps for package theft prevention.

That’s why the home security experts at Security Doctors have compiled the below list of tactics that homeowners can use to help prevent package theft.

Install Outdoor Security Cameras

One of the best prevention methods is to use a home video monitoring system.

Numerous studies have shown that burglars are much less likely to follow through with a crime if they’re aware that a security system is in place. In one study, 83% of burglars actively looked for signs of a security system before committing a crime—with the majority admitting that they would not commit the crime if they thought one was present.

Reach out to Your Neighbors

Neighbors can prove to be a great ally when you need a quick fix for theft prevention. If you plan on not being home during a delivery, reach out to a neighbor and ask them to keep an eye out for you.

Have Packages Delivered to Another Location

Depending on your workplace policy, shipping packages to the office might be an alternative option if you can’t have someone watch your home for deliveries. Companies such as Amazon or FedEx have store locations and lockers where packages are safely stored until they’re picked up.

Ask For Nondescript Packaging

When ordering something, especially from a higher-end store, make sure to opt for bland packaging. This type of packaging helps conceal what your delivery could be, potentially dissuading thieves in the process.

Subscribe to Delivery Alerts

Delivery alerts offer a way to keep track of where your package is and when it’s expected for delivery. All major mail carriers have a delivery alert functionality, allowing you to ensure that you’re at home when your package arrives.

Require a Signature

Another great way to prevent package theft is by requiring a signature for your packages to be delivered. USPS utilizes a service called My Choice, which enables users to customize their delivery preferences by making signatures necessary for delivery.

Still Worried About Package Theft? Security Doctors Can Help.

If you’re still concerned about protecting your home from package theft, consider reaching out to one of the security experts at Security Doctors. We’re Chicagoland’s premier home security team and are highly skilled at preventing package thefts.

Request a free security consultation today to learn more about our state-of-the-art outdoor security technology.

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