How to Protect Your Deliveries During the Holidays
The Holidays are right around the corner and many of us are getting things delivered to our door. As we take advantage of the many conveniences of online shopping, thieves are trying to take advantage of us. There are a few things you can do to make sure you get everything you order. If you live in a condo or apartment and have a secure entrance or door man you don’t have to worry about it. For everyone else, here are a few suggestions.
- Have items shipped to your workplace.
You should, of course, make sure it is OK with your employer first. This is typically the easiest way to keep your shipments safe. Rather than sitting on your door step all day, you can take your gifts home with you at the end of the day.
- Send packages to a friend or family member who is home during the day.
Same thing as above, let them know its coming. As long as your recipient is not the person the gift is for, there is very little risk. Bonus, it’s free. Simply swing by at the end of the day, it also gives you an excuse to hang out.
- Rent a UPS Store mailbox
This one is not free, but may be worth it if you are going to be receiving something valuable or rare. The price varies based on location. Somewhere around $20 a month is the suggestion from UPS, depending on how long you agree to rent it.
- Video monitoring system
Obviously not the cheapest option, some cost more than others. While a video camera at your door may deter a criminal from grabbing that box of goodies, it doesn’t physically prevent the theft. If someone were to steal from your door step it would help Police find the person, if not recover the items.
- Get a Porch Pirate bag
Hardly a term of endearment, this crime has been so common during the holidays that this particular brand of thief has their own nickname. There is a hashtag too. These bags are available on Amazon for about $30. As long as the thief doesn’t steal the bag before it goes into operation it can be used to secure packages to door knobs, porch posts, or anything else permanently attached to your home.
Any of the tips above or a combination of them can help ensure you have a happy, pirate free holiday season. With the convenience of online shopping changing the way we do business there are sure to be complications. If you still enjoy going to the stores and shopping for everything you need in person you don’t have to worry. Not every neighborhood has pirates either but many of the suggestions above will give you a little extra piece of mind.
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