With the rise in online shopping, protecting package deliveries is a growing concern for everyone and a major issue for associations. Proactive measures are important to ensure your packages arrive safely. Here are some helpful tips.
1. Delivery Day Coordination. It’s not always realistic to be home for a delivery, and delivery times sometimes change, but a little planning can make a big difference. If your building has a doorman or front desk staff, let them know you are expecting a package. The tracking information will confirm when the package was signed for. If you don’t have this amenity, coordinate with a trusted neighbor who can keep an eye out and bring your package inside, especially if you are going to be out of town when a package arrives.
2. Utilize Package Tracking. Most online retailers provide a tracking number once your order has shipped – be sure to save it! Sign up for email or text alerts to monitor your package’s journey and get an accurate delivery time. This information is crucial for knowing when to expect the package and when it might be a good idea to be home.
3. Signature Confirmation When placing an online order, take a moment to look for the “signature confirmation” option during checkout. This simple step prevents the delivery service from leaving your package unattended. A person must be present to sign for the parcel, giving you greater control and peace of mind that your item has been received.
4. Building Access and Entry Codes If your building has a system for granting delivery access, be cautious about how you use it. Never provide a generic or permanent entry code to a delivery company. Instead, if your system allows it, provide a one-time code for a specific delivery. It’s often safer for the driver to call the recipient and be let in by them, rather than having a code that could be misused.
5. Consider Smart Home Technology. For townhome or single-family home residents, some services offer in-home delivery. Amazon Key, for example, allows drivers to securely deliver packages inside your home using smart lock technology. The process is monitored, and you receive real-time notifications, giving you full visibility and control over who enters your home and when.
6. The Role of Security Cameras While security cameras don’t physically prevent theft, they are an excellent deterrent and provide valuable evidence if a package is stolen. Many associations have installed cameras in common mail areas. While the footage may not get your package back, it is essential for filing a police report and potentially identifying the thief.
7. Ship to an Alternate Location Many delivery companies offer services that allow you to reroute packages to a secure, off-site location. UPS and FedEx have store locations and lockers where you can have your items delivered for later pickup. Amazon also provides “ship to” locations and secure lockers, many with 24-hour access. This option is excellent for maintaining control over the delivery process.
If your employer permits it, shipping packages to your workplace is a highly effective way to ensure they are received by a person and kept in a secure location until you can take them home. This eliminates the risk of a package being left on a doorstep or in a common area.
8. Be a Good Neighbor. Community effort is key to preventing package theft. Help your neighbors by moving packages inside or away from public view at their front door. If you see a package in a common area, take it into the mailroom if you can. Leaving packages in common areas makes them a prime target for thieves. Be especially vigilant with perishable items. It takes a village and helping one another makes everyone’s deliveries more secure. Also, be considerate of others and pick up your own packages promptly. Consult your association’s rules and regulations for more information.
By implementing a combination of these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of package theft and make your online shopping experience more secure.
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