Package Delivery Theft Prevention Tips from the BCPD

Here is some timely information from the Community Outreach Team of the BCPD.

If you have ever ordered clothing, jewelry, gifts, or any other merchandise by phone, computer, or mail, chances are those items were delivered straight to your home. Most deliveries DO NOT require a signature and are generally left at your front door even if no one is home to accept them. These packages, which quickly catch the eye of potential thieves offer criminals that “crime of opportunity”.

Thieves “Porch Pirates”, looking to steal your packages will follow or watch for UPS, Fed Ex, US Mail, and other delivery service trucks so they can target your home after the parcels are delivered. See below recommendations:

• The best method for preventing package theft is limiting the amount of time your package is outside and visible to potential thieves.

• Use resources provided by the delivery service via their applications to manage the delivery with specific delivery instructions.

• Arrange to have your packages held at the shipping service so you can pick them up.

• Ask the delivery service to leave your packages at a side or back door. An enclosed porch where packages are out of sight is also a good option.

• Have your packages delivered to your workplace or home of a relative or neighbor who will be there to accept them.

• Ask to have your packages delivered to a participating retail store so you can pick them up at your convenience.

• Ask a trustworthy neighbor to keep a “Watchful Eye” out for you packages. If they’re willing, ask them to safeguard your packages until your return home.

• Leave a note for the carrier instructing them where to leave your packages (Ex: backdoor).

• If your package does not arrive as scheduled contact the sender immediately.

• If you are going on vacation, place deliveries on hold until you return from your trip.

Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact The Community Outreach Team: 410-887-5933.