If you’re one of the millions of Americans who do their shopping online, you know that the process is not without its risks. One of the most common problems is package theft, which can happen even if you’re home when the delivery is made. So how can you protect your packages from being stolen? Keep reading for some helpful tips.
Ensure a Secure Delivery Area
Restricting access to the delivery area is an effective way to protect your packages from theft. This can be done by using a security gate or door, and monitoring who enters and leaves the area with a home security system. Package delivery issues like ‘Amazon package stolen’ is on the rise due to increased unattended deliveries. Most thieves are less likely to steal packages from a home with a visible security system because they know they are being watched.
You can also use a security system that includes motion detectors so that if someone attempts to steal your package, the alarm will go off and notify the police association. Finally, you can have your packages delivered to a designated, secure dropbox on your property.
If you are not going to be home when the package is scheduled for delivery, have it shipped to your place of work, or ask a trusted neighbor or close friend if they wouldn’t mind receiving the package for you. If you live in an apartment complex or residential community, have the package delivered to the leasing office. When none of these options are available, consider having your package delivered to a PO Box or ask the courier to hold the delivery for pick-up.
There are also facilities and third-party companies that offer secure storage lockers where your packages can be safely delivered and held until you retrieve them with a key.
Refuse Damaged Packages
If you receive a package that appears to have been damaged in transit or is missing items, refuse the package and notify the sender immediately. This will help protect you from becoming a victim of mail theft and ensure that you receive any compensation that may be available.
If you purchased items from an online retailer, contact customer service as soon as you refuse the package. A reputable company will be happy to replace any damaged or stolen items free of charge. Before ordering products online, check the retailer’s return policies to make sure you won’t be held liable for damaged or stolen packages.
Request Signature Confirmation
Requiring a signature confirmation for important deliveries is one way to help protect packages from theft. This feature can be requested from the shipping company when placing an order and ensures that the recipient must sign for the package to receive it.
If you’re the recipient, you can also require signature confirmation. This usually requires signing up for an account with your regular courier or delivery provider. Once you sign up, you’ll have access to enhanced tracking features, and many delivery providers allow you to leave notes and directions for the delivery driver.
Requesting a signature for delivery can help to deter thieves who may not want to risk getting caught stealing a package and can also provide peace of mind for the sender knowing that their package has been delivered safely.
Restrict Access to Shipping Documents
Shipping documents can provide thieves with information about the contents of a package, its destination, and when it is scheduled to be delivered. Whether you are sending a personal package or shipping a package from your business, it is important to restrict access to shipping documents. This can be done by either keeping the documents confidential or making them available only to authorized individuals.
Package theft is one of the biggest risks of shopping online, especially during the holiday season. Following these simple guidelines will help you ensure your package is delivered safely and securely.
