An estimated 260 million packages were stolen in the US in 2023. That sounds alarming, but the key word is opportunistic — porch pirates grab what's visible and easy. A package at a side entrance, behind a planter, or inside an Amazon Locker doesn't get stolen. That's the whole strategy.
Understanding When Theft Happens
The typical porch pirate opportunistically grabs packages that are visible and easily accessible. Most thefts occur:
- Within 2 hours of delivery
- When packages are visible from the street
- In neighborhoods with less foot traffic or neighbor surveillance
The best defense is making your packages invisible from the street or unavailable for quick grab-and-run.
Strategy 1: Delivery Instructions
All major carriers allow you to leave delivery instructions. Use these to direct carriers to less visible locations:
- 'Leave behind the large planter on the left of the door'
- 'Leave at the side gate'
- 'Place in the garage if door is open'
UPS My Choice, FedEx Delivery Manager, and USPS Informed Delivery all allow detailed instructions. Amazon's delivery preference system also allows specific placement instructions.
Strategy 2: Package Lockers and Secure Boxes
- Amazon Hub Lockers: Available in thousands of locations (grocery stores, convenience stores, Amazon warehouses). Direct your delivery to a nearby locker and pick it up using a code. Completely eliminates porch piracy risk for Amazon orders.
- UPS Access Points: UPS partners with local businesses to serve as secure package pickup points.
- FedEx OnSite: FedEx's version at Walgreens, grocery stores, and other locations.
- Smart Package Boxes: Products like the BoxLock, Package Guard, or Porch Pod provide locked outdoor storage. These typically range $50-$200 and provide excellent protection.
Track Your Delivery in Real Time
Know exactly when your package will arrive so you can be ready to retrieve it.
Track Your PackageStrategy 3: Smart Doorbells and Cameras
A visible doorbell camera deters many package thieves:
- Ring Video Doorbell: Sends instant alerts when someone is at your door. Cloud storage with subscription. Can speak to the delivery person in real time.
- Google Nest Doorbell: Similar features, integrates with Google Home.
- Simplisafe, ADT: Full security systems with outdoor cameras.
Strategy 4: Delivery Management Apps
- USPS Informed Delivery: Free service — USPS emails you every morning showing the mail and packages scheduled for delivery that day. You can see what's coming and be home or ask a neighbor.
- Amazon Delivery Notifications: Push notifications when your Amazon package is delivered.
- UPS My Choice and FedEx Delivery Manager: Notifications, delivery management, and real-time tracking.
USPS Informed Delivery costs nothing and takes 2 minutes to set up at informeddelivery.usps.com. You'll know about every package before it arrives — so you can plan to receive high-value deliveries.
Strategy 5: Community Approaches
- Ask a trusted neighbor to grab packages when you're away
- Set up a neighborhood watch group or use Nextdoor to report suspicious activity
- In neighborhoods with a Ring camera network, thieves caught on camera are often identified through the Ring Neighbors app
What to Do If Your Package Is Stolen
- Report to police: File a report at your local police department — many carriers and insurance companies require this for claims
- Contact the carrier: File a claim for the lost package
- Contact the seller/platform: Amazon, eBay, and most major retailers will reship or refund for stolen deliveries
- Review camera footage: If you have a doorbell camera, the footage may help police identify the thief
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Summary: Package Theft Prevention Checklist
Track deliveries on ParcelsZen to know your exact arrival window. The most underrated prevention tool: USPS Informed Delivery, completely free. You'll know every package coming before it arrives — so you can be home, or ask a neighbor to grab anything valuable.
- Delivery instructions: UPS My Choice / FedEx Delivery Manager / Amazon preferences — direct to hidden spots
- Amazon Hub Locker: Free pickup at nearby locations — zero porch piracy risk
- UPS Access Points / FedEx OnSite: Secure pickup at local businesses
- Smart package boxes: BoxLock, Porch Pod — $50-$200
- Ring / Nest doorbell: Visible camera deters thieves + records evidence
- USPS Informed Delivery: Free daily email showing incoming packages
- Community: Nextdoor + Ring Neighbors for neighborhood awareness
- If stolen: Police report → carrier claim → seller/platform reship or refund