Protect Your Deliveries This Christmas

Porch Pirates and Parcel Safety – Protect Your Deliveries This Christmas

The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the joy of giving and receiving gifts. But while we’re busy spreading holiday cheer, opportunistic thieves—often called “porch pirates”—are on the lookout for unattended parcels. Online shopping might be convenient, but it’s essential to safeguard your deliveries. Here’s how you can keep your packages safe and ensure your presents make it under the tree.

Arrange for your parcels to be delivered to a secure spot. This could be your workplace, a trusted neighbor’s house, or a designated parcel locker. Many courier services offer alternative delivery options to reduce the risk of theft.

If you won’t be home at the time of delivery, provide clear instructions for the courier. Ask for packages to be placed out of sight—behind a gate, in a secure box, or another concealed area. Many delivery apps allow you to specify these preferences directly.

Most online retailers and couriers offer tracking services. Use them to monitor your delivery times and make sure you retrieve packages promptly. Setting up notifications can help you stay informed when your parcel is on its way or has been delivered.

A video doorbell or CCTV system can be a powerful deterrent to potential thieves. Not only do these devices discourage theft, but they also assist in identifying culprits if a theft occurs. Some systems even allow you to communicate with couriers or visitors remotely.

Whenever possible, opt for deliveries that require a signature upon receipt. This ensures your parcels are handed directly to you or someone at the address, rather than being left unattended.

Click-and-collect services are a fantastic alternative during the holiday season. By picking up your items in-store, you eliminate the risk of leaving your parcels vulnerable to theft.

If your parcel hasn’t arrived as expected, contact the courier immediately to report the issue. Most companies have procedures in place to address lost or stolen packages, so don’t hesitate to follow up.

If you witness theft or notice anything unusual in your neighborhood, report it to the authorities. In the UK, you can call 101 for non-emergency situations or 999 in emergencies.

POLICE