Unfortunately, package theft isn’t limited to the holiday season and can happen at any time. On average, 1 in 4 people fall victim to package theft, and among millennials, the average is 1 in 3. With instances of package theft happening so often, you’re probably wondering how to prevent it from happening to you. Luckily, XPS has a few simple tips on how to protect your deliveries and package theft prevention.
How to Prevent Packages From Being Stolen
While there is no method that is foolproof, there are a few things you can do to ensure your parcel is safe.
Utilize Shipment Tracking Software
The first step is utilizing shipment tracking software. Every major carrier offers some type of tracking system, and it can make all the difference. This allows you to get real-time updates on your order’s journey, and when it will arrive on your doorstep. You can also sign up for email or text alerts, so you will receive a notification every step of the way. This allows you to keep apprised of where your package is, and when you can expect it to show up.
Requiring a signature upon delivery is another way to utilize shipment tracking features. If you want to ensure your package isn’t left unattended, you can easily specify that a signature is required before the parcel is left. You even have the option of requiring the signature to be by an adult. This may seem like a hassle sometimes, but is actually very helpful when you have a valuable item being delivered. With shipment tracking software, package theft prevention is simple.
Finally, if you’re out of town or unavailable at the time of delivery, you can opt to have your packages held at the carrier’s office. The only downside is there is usually a limit on the number of days your package is allowed to stay at the facility. So, it’s important to ensure you’re going to be able to pick it up in a timely manner before choosing this option.
Integrate eCommerce
On the flip side, if your business is the one sending the packages, you can help your customers prevent theft. No matter what platform you use, XPS can integrate your online store with efficient eCommerce shipping software. This simple integration makes your shipping process automated and keeps you up-to-date as soon as you make a label. Our eCommerce feature also helps you stay on schedule, and make shipping easy. If you have a customer wondering where their package is, you can find it quickly with our web-based shipping software.
Other Methods of Package Theft Prevention
Shipment tracking software is one of the best ways to prevent your delivery from being stolen, and there are other methods to use in addition.
Install a Doorbell Camera
Use a Smart Lock
No matter which carrier is delivering your package, your delivery driver can drop your package inside even if you’re not home. The August Smart Lock Pro allows you to lock and unlock your door remotely, so you can let anyone in no matter where you are. If you don’t have time to unlock the door, you can also give the delivery driver a code they can use to open the door themselves. With the accompanying app, you can see all the activity so you know exactly when it was dropped off, and if the door was locked on the way out. In addition to an indoor security camera, this can be a very convenient option in preventing package theft.
Have a Neighbor Help
If you have a neighbor that you trust, this is a simple method to ensure your deliveries are safe. However, this will have to be a neighbor who is home during the day. This gives you peace of mind knowing the items you ordered are safe and sound until you get home.
Prevent Package Theft
There are a number of things you can do as package theft prevention, and doing one or a few of these can give you peace of mind. From utilizing shipment tracking software to using gadgets, you now have tools to prevent package theft.