The problem of porch pirates is quite rampant across the world. People have to deal with stolen packages all the time. And if it is something that they need a lot and cannot wait another week for a new delivery, the whole situation becomes even worse.
Exterminating porch thieves completely is more or less impossible. However, you can still take some action and make the situation more tolerable. The plan below should be a good reference in developing a strategy of fighting against those who are trying to steal your packages.
Step #1 – Get Help From Delivery Services
Different delivery companies will offer you different perks. Some will order their employees to make sure that the customer signs before the package is delivered. So if you are at home, they would reschedule.
Other companies will offer refunds, especially if it is the delivery person who is at fault. Take a look at what each delivery company policy is like. For example, USPS stolen package action plan is a good article that explains what you should do in case your USPS package is gone.
You should not have that many problems finding similar plans for other delivery services. Even if they do not offer information on the official website, this kind of stuff ought to be available on other sources.
Step #2 – Buy a Guard Dog
A guard dog will help with home safety in general. If a porch pirate is looking for their next potential target, they will tend to skip homes that have a dog. There is always a danger of getting hurt. And even if the dog cannot approach the porch because of a leash, it will still alert the neighborhood by barking.
Step #3 – Install a Security System
Similar to a guard dog, a security system, especially cameras, will do wonders as a preventative measure. People are less likely to enter the premises if they see cameras. Video evidence will hold up in court quite well, and if a thief is caught, they will not have a way to get out of the situation. Hardly anyone is willing to risk facing consequences after getting caught with solid proof that it was their job.
Step #4 – Consider an Amazon Key
An Amazon key is still a relatively new device, but it seems that more and more people are willing to give it a try. After all, it is Amazon that delivers the most packages.
If you cannot accept the delivery in person but want to know that your package is safe, Amazon’s key could be just the thing for that.
It allows for the delivery person to enter your house or garage. The package would be left inside, meaning that no unwanted person would be able to get their hands on it.
Not every homeowner would be willing to invite a random stranger who works as a delivery man, but Amazon’s employees have a decent track record. And it is not like most people would be willing to risk their job and face the consequences of breaking the law.
Step #5 – Ask Someone for Help
Someone you trust could be the recipient. If you are in a good relationship with some of your neighbors, they could help you out and collect the delivery on your behalf. As an alternative, you can ask a friend or a family member.
The bottom line is that you can rearrange the delivery. And if it is someone who you know and trust that picks it, then there is really no difference because you know that the package will be in safe hands.
Step #6 – Reschedule Another Pickup Time
If you are unable to find a solution, you are left with the option of rescheduling the package for another time. It can be a nuisance for everyone involved, but if there is no other option, then you have no choice but to go with it.
Step #7 – Use Smart Package Lockers
You must have seen smart package lockers near supermarkets and other stores. They are a great alternative to leaving the package just lying on your porch.
The delivery person leaves the package in a box. Only those with a PIN or another type of code can access them. You receive the code via text message or an email.
It will cost a few extra dollars, but if you are looking for one of the safest options, you will not find a lot of better solutions than a smart package locker.
Step #8 – Get a Parcel Box
A parcel box can be your personal smart package locker. It is similar to a mailbox, except that you can fit in larger packages. And, naturally, you will be the only one with access to it, so no thief will be able to get inside and steal from you.
