Use a Security Camera
Consider installing a security camera near your front door. This is the best way you catch a package thief, as you have evidence and visual information about the thief that you can provide to law enforcement.
Most people can't expect that their neighbors are watching their front porch diligently enough that they will notice if someone steals a package from the front porch. If you're away from home with any regularity, a security camera is essential.
While you can use a traditional security camera, you might also consider using a doorbell camera. These are positioned in a place where you can see anyone who approaches your doorway.
With ADT doorbell camera solutions, you can help ensure secure deliveries, offer crisp, clear HD images of whoever is at your door, as well as two-way audio so you can chat with visitors.
These doorbell cameras also come with built-in motion detection, meaning that your smartphone will get an alert when someone is at your home. Even when you aren't home, you'll be able to both see and speak with anyone that's at your front door.
On top of all that, these cameras are also equipped with night vision. This means that people at your doorway can be seen more clearly even in low light. The 180-degree wide view of your front yard also can help protect the rest of your property.
Install Motion Detector Lights
If someone is trying to steal your package, they are doing so with the hope that they can slip in and out unseen. When you have motion detector lights, there's a good chance they will get spooked away before reaching your porch when the lights come on. Porch pirates are well aware that the lights turning on might capture someone's attention and that they are far more visible with a spotlight shining on them.
Get to Know the Delivery People
There's a good chance that some of the same delivery people are frequently stopping by your home. Get to know the delivery people in your area and become friendly with them. You can also share with them your preferences about where to leave packages so they are less likely to be stolen.
Delivery drivers often also have some degree of discretion when it comes to deliveries. This means that if they know you and notice something that seems odd at your home, they might be more likely to simply leave you a notice rather than the package.
Network With Neighbors
If package theft has been an ongoing problem in your neighborhood rather than a one-off event, you might consider collaborating with your neighbors. You and the other property owners around you might decide to look out for strangers in the neighborhood. Additionally, you might agree to keep an eye on deliveries at each other's houses.
If you aren't going to be home when a package is delivered, you can ask a trusted neighbor if you can have it sent there instead. You can also ask the neighbor to grab a package that's already been delivered and keep it at their home until you return back o the house.
Upgrade Your Mailbox
Another option when it comes to preventing package theft is getting a lockbox to replace your current mailbox. It can be used for both regular mail and packages.
It's important to make sure that any box you install is one that is approved by the USPS so you don't run into issues.
Have Your Package Delivered to Your Work
One way you can avoid even having a porch pirate tempted by your delivery is to just get your packages delivered to work. This might work out just fine and be convenient for you, but it might be impractical with certain types of packages. After all, do you really want to have that heavy, awkwardly shaped box delivered to your office just so you have to transport it back home?
Take Advantage of the "Ship to Store" Option
Many retailers offer a "ship to store" option. This means that you can order items that they don't have in stock and have them sent to the store itself. You can then go and pick it up within a reasonably wide timeframe.
If you don't mind running errands or you live near to the retail store, this might not be too inconvenient. However, it does seem to take some of the efficiency out of online shopping when you end up driving to the store and picking up the item yourself. Also, this is only going to be an option for certain types of items and retailers.
At ADT, we take your safety and security seriously. If you're looking for more resources on how to prevent package theft, take a look at this article.
