Tis the season for stolen packages. Across the country, authorities are increasing patrols in order to catch what authorities have dubbed ‘porch pirates’: thieves who steal delivery packages left on your doorstep.
Online shopping has increased by 78 percent and along with that comes an upsurge in thefts. Eight in ten U.S. citizens now shop online and most prefer their packages to be sent to their homes—92 percent. While package theft is a year-long issue, an increase in online shopping during the holidays brings the subsequent increase in thefts.
31 percent of respondents to a Shorr survey—a packaging products, equipment and services distributor—said they personally had packages stolen. 41 percent receive packages 3-5 times a month averaging $200. 27 percent report spending between $500-$1000. Only 35 percent send packages to an address other than their home and 53 percent said they have changed their plans to make sure they were home when their package was delivered.
What items do people order online? 43 percent stated electronics.
The study went further into discussing the issue of the so-called Porch Pirates with 71 percent of people said they prefer their packages to a more secure location.
“We also asked respondents what makes packages so appealing to porch pirates. Their top three answers: Location of the box after arriving (33 percent), branded packaging (31 percent) and descriptive text on the box (20 percent).”
There are a few tips to help secure your packages including having them delivered to your work, picking them up at the post office or shipping facility, asking a neighbor to watch for them, leave specific instructions for the delivery drivers, or require a signature.
The easiest and most secure tip to help protect holiday packaging including installation of a security camera or video intercom doorbell that connects to your smartphone. BEC Integrated Solutions also offers Video Intercom Systems.
“Our video intercom systems allow property owners to have discrete entry access control. Doors, gates, windows, and even full property zones can be monitored using our video intercom systems.”
“Our wireless video intercom system provides the perfect, secure connection between you and your front door; anywhere, anytime. No matter what time of day or night, motion detection sensors alert you immediately when activity is captured on your doorstep.”
BEC Integrated Solutions provides a variety of products that meet your needs for securing your property and making sure your holiday season isn’t ruined by porch pirates. Contact us for a free quote today.
