Keeping packages safe from 'porch pirates'

As the holidays near and southeast Iowa residents purchase their final gifts online, they expect them to arrive on time. However, not all packages make it under the tree as they're stolen off front porches.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) handles nearly 20 million packages a day during the holiday season, UPS does about the same and FedEx about 30 million according to the respective companies. And more packages mean more opportunities for items to get lost or stolen. In fact, package theft has become so common in certain areas there's even a term for people who steal them — porch pirates. There are, however, some measures to take to keep packages safe according delivery experts.

"Don't leave delivered mail and packages unattended." said Kristy Anderson, strategic communications specialist for USPS. "Just as wallets and purses shouldn't be left on the front seat of an unlocked car overnight, mail and packages shouldn't be left uncollected in mailboxes or on front porches for any length of time."

Delivery companies offer services allowing for most packages to be tracked online with a confirmation or tracking number. However, if you're not planning to be home when they arrive, it's a good idea to look up different delivery options.

"Have the shipment sent to where they are — not where they aren't," said Dawn Wotapka, UPS representative. "In other words, if they are at work during the day they can have packages delivered to where they work."

USPS, UPS and FedEx all allow for packages to be rerouted to a different location. If another location is not feasible, USPS offers a service called Hold for Pickup with which customers can opt to pick up packages from a nearby post office. UPS has a similar service but also offers various "Access Points" in partnership with local stores as pickup points. FedEx offers this service as well from their FedEx locations.

If you are planning to be home when a package arrives, but still want a bit more security, you can leave a note for drivers clarifying where you think the package would be safe. For instance, in the shed or behind the garage.

"UPS drivers can enter that information into their handheld computers for future deliveries," Wotapka said.

Another option, ask for someone to sign for the package.

"If you're shipping something of high value — or you just want to be sure items aren't left unattended — you can require a signature for packages to be released," said Jonathan Lyons, a FedEx representative. "Either the shipper or the recipient can make this request."

There are some paid options, for those willing, like renting a P.O. Box or a similar mailbox service. There are even theft deterrent mailboxes you can install at home big enough to hold packages.

Regardless of the safety precautions, if you are a victim of package theft, you should report it to the police according to all three big delivery companies, USPS, UPS and FedEx.

Though specific numbers aren't available, there have been reports of packages being stolen in the area according to Washington and Mt. Pleasant police. And, in some cases, home video surveillance systems can help officers locate suspects. In Washington, the police department recently launched a community camera program that allows for participants to share video footage with officers when it may assist in a case.

And finally, check with the sellers to see what their policies are for stolen or lost products. Larger companies like Amazon may be willing to reimburse buyers in certain cases. Of course, if it's a package you shipped yourself, buying insurance adds a bit more protection.