Are your packages safe? If your boxes are sitting out in the open on your doorstep, it’s very possible a thief has an eye on your stuff. About 23 million people have said they have had a package stolen from their doorstep, according to a survey from BankRate Inc. and Insurance Quotes.com.
If you’ve been the victim of a doorstep theft, contact the police immediately and get in touch with the merchant customer service team, as well as the delivery company. When submitting your inquiry, be sure to attach any evidence to your message, such as home security video or photo evidence.
The best outcome, however, is to prevent and discourage theft from ever taking place. Use these helpful tips to protect your delivered packages.
Delivery App Notifications
We live in a world today where we are constantly getting messages, updates and more through our smartphones. Delivery companies have embraced the digital age and have rolled out helpful services to keep consumers connected. UPS offers “My Choice,” an online service that provides up-to-date notifications about package delivery. FedEx allows users to track packages directly from its website simply by entering a tracking number. Not to be left out, the United States Postal Service also offers helpful tracking services, which allows consumers to track, manage and even intercept mail and packages online.
In addition to these helpful services, the Doorman app can be used to schedule deliveries, no matter the delivery carrier. Featured on Tech Crunch and CNN, among others, the smartphone app makes delivery easy. If you’re stuck at the office, there’s no need to worry. All deliveries are made and scheduled between 6 p.m. and midnight, ensuring that you’re home to receive your package. Users can choose from three packages, Gold Plan, Silver Plan or pay-as-you-go—and there’s no long-term contracts to worry about.
Home Security Systems
One of the best ways to prevent theft is by setting up a home security system. Not only can a comprehensive home surveillance system keep your doorstep packages safe from the hands of thieves, a home security setup can protect your entire home from devious criminals. There are many products to choose from, including HD security systems, night vision styles, webcams and more. Lorex, a leader in the tech sector, offers a wide-range of powerful and affordable systems that can meet your home security needs. From a two camera setup to an advanced system that features 12 cameras, you can get whatever it is that you need to rest easy. Netgear also offers a series of wireless indoor/outdoor smart security cameras with an app for mobile monitoring through their brand, Arlo.
Neighborhood Watch Groups
Neighborhood Watch groups have been a staple in American communities for decades. But today, the old-fashioned watch groups are evolving. Created by a group of experienced technology entrepreneurs in San Francisco, the message board app Nextdoor has connected more than 96,000 neighborhoods across the country. The free private social network is created exclusively for your neighborhood. Simply enter your home’s street address and your e-mail address to get started. Once on the message board, you or your neighbors can report and document any suspicious activity taking place around the neighborhood with just the click of a button. The app also provides other helpful uses, including tracking down a babysitter to asking for help with something around your home.
Lauren Topor
Lauren Topor is a lifestyle writer based in the Southwest who spends her days writing about food and health, fashion, fitness and entertainment.
