6 Ways to Avoid Package Theft This Holiday Season
Unfortunately, there is always a spike in theft and burglaries in the holiday season. This is a busy time of the year for shipping companies as many people take advantage of online shopping for purchasing gifts and other goods. Increased online purchases means there are lots of boxes left by front doors and this creates easy pickings for thieves. That’s why package thefts are significantly increased during the holiday season. You can avoid package theft by following some simple tips.
Following are 6 ways to avoid package theft this holiday season:
1. Track Your Packages
Most shipping companies such as Amazon, FedEx, UPS, USPS, etc. offer tracking. It is recommended that you ask for tracking whenever you order your items and once provided, keep an eye on it. Amazon automatically tracks all the packages it ships however some companies don’t offer this service automatically. You should not be shy about it and get the tracking info and watch for your packages until you receive them.
2. Put a Hold on Your Package if You Are Leaving Town
If you are going out of town and think that you won’t be at home when your package arrives, then it is highly recommended that you put a hold on your package. Most companies allow you to put a hold on your package for many days, for free. Even if you are only going to be out of town for a couple of days, it is recommended that you put your package on hold. This is because if your package arrives while you are gone, then there will be plenty of time for a thief to go onto your porch and steal it.
3. Install an Outdoor Security Camera
Installing a doorbell camera or an outdoor security camera pointing at your front door is one of the best ways to minimize the chances of your package being stolen. Home security alarms and video surveillance systems are instrumental in catching thieves in the act and bringing them to justice. A visible security camera at your front door will act as a great deterrent for criminals and prevent package theft.
4. Consider an Alternate Shipping Address
If permissible, have your package delivered to your workplace. There are many other options when it comes to choosing an alternate shipping address. For example, you can have it delivered to Amazon Locker or any other reputable package pickup location offered by other businesses that accept package deliveries or consider in-store delivery. If you are leaving town and don’t want to put a hold on your package, then consider having your package delivered to your neighbor.
5. Don’t Leave Delivered Packages Unattended
Just as purses and wallets shouldn’t be left on the front seat of a car overnight, packages shouldn’t be left uncollected on front porches or in mail boxes for any length of time.
6. Require a Signature Upon Delivery
Many people hate having to sign for packages when they are delivered. When people don’t require a signature, couriers leave the package at the front door, making it an easy target for thieves. That’s why it is recommended that you choose the ‘signature upon delivery’ option when ordering a package.
If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!