Many of us shop online all year round, but there is a
definite uptick during the holidays. Consumers love the convenience, but one
major downfall to online shopping is the increased risk of package theft, also
called “porch piracy”. A 2016 survey conducted by the home security company
Ring.com found that nearly 20 percent of homeowners reported having a package
stolen within the previous year.
Protect yourself from
package theft by following these few simple tips:
-- If possible, have packages delivered to your
workplace so they are actually in your hands.
--Utilize your home security system’s cameras. Keep them turned on anytime you and your family are away from home so you can track the activity at your house.
--Instruct drivers to leave packages at another location. According to statistics on Ring.com’s website, 73% of homeowners have packages dropped off at the front door, so this is the most obvious location for a thief to look. Both FedEx and UPS have apps that allow you to choose where you’d like your packages delivered, so take advantage and choose an alternative drop-off location, such as at your back door or with a trusted neighbor.
--Utilize your home security system’s cameras. Keep them turned on anytime you and your family are away from home so you can track the activity at your house.
--Instruct drivers to leave packages at another location. According to statistics on Ring.com’s website, 73% of homeowners have packages dropped off at the front door, so this is the most obvious location for a thief to look. Both FedEx and UPS have apps that allow you to choose where you’d like your packages delivered, so take advantage and choose an alternative drop-off location, such as at your back door or with a trusted neighbor.
--Sign up for delivery alerts. Most
e-commerce sites will notify you when your package ships and give you an
expected delivery date. If you know when your package is arriving, you can rearrange
your schedule so you or a family member can get home and take the package
inside so it’s not sitting on the porch for hours.
--Request a signature for your deliveries. This might be the most inconvenient option, especially if you and your family are out of the house all day, but most delivery companies offer extended hours during the holiday season. You can choose to get your package dropped off in the evening or on a weekend to ensure you’ll be home to sign for it.
--Request a signature for your deliveries. This might be the most inconvenient option, especially if you and your family are out of the house all day, but most delivery companies offer extended hours during the holiday season. You can choose to get your package dropped off in the evening or on a weekend to ensure you’ll be home to sign for it.
The holiday season can be stressful enough—you shouldn’t
have to worry about potential package thieves.
Besides the tips listed above, ask your neighbors to look out for any suspicious
vehicles or individuals in your neighborhood so everyone’s property and
belongings stay safe.
ETA Insurance Group is a local, independent insurance agency that works with over 50 carriers. We offer a full line of insurance products for all your needs, from home and auto to health, life, and Medicare. As independent agents we can shop around to find you the best coverage for your needs and your budget.
