Porch Pirates: 5 Ways to Protect Your Holiday Packages

Package theft rises with holiday shipping. Here are five practical ways to protect deliveries, from USPS and the Postal Inspection Service.

1. Bring them in fast

Turn on delivery alerts. USPIS says not to leave packages at your door any longer than necessary.

2. Use a locker or pickup

Many stores and carriers offer lockers or Hold for Pickup.

3. Away? Hold your mail

Request free USPS Hold Mail at usps.com.

4. Require a signature

Ask for signature confirmation on valuable items.

5. Use a camera

Aim one at your front door. If it catches a thief, save the video and contact postal inspectors.

Sources

USPIS (Mail and package theft; holiday crime tips); USPS (Hold Mail).

FAQ

Who do I report mail theft to?

Postal inspectors at uspis.gov/report or 1-877-876-2455. Call 911 for a crime in progress.

Does Hold Mail cost anything?

USPS offers it free; request it online at usps.com.