PORCH THEFTS

Protect your home from package pests

The rise of online marketplaces and expedited delivery services is a convenient service for many consumers across the nation, allowing purchasers to search out the perfect home decor items and more.

Unfortunately, purchasing and having the item delivered to the proper address does not guarantee you will receive it.

Home package thieves, also known as “porch pirates,” often take advantage of an opportunity and may frequent a neighborhood or community multiple times before moving on to another.

They will often target houses that provide a quick inand-out route, especially if the porch or area is within 25 feet of the street and is easily visible.

As a crime of opportunity, preventing or discouraging package theft can be accomplished in several ways, depending on the home’s location, type, and community.

For instance, preventing package theft at an apartment complex in the middle of the city differs from a suburban residential community. However, con-sumers can use strategies to discourage the act no matter where they live.

The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas provides these tips to prevent package thieves from affecting your holiday plans —and the rest of the year:

• Check with neighbors.

Sometimes, your package may not be stolen at all, just simply at the wrong address. Before

filing a report or contacting the sender, check with your neighbors and see if the delivery service may have dropped off your package at the wrong address. Some delivery companies will take pictures of your package in the designated location. Ask if a photo was taken and verify it is at the right spot.

• Don’t leave unattended packages. When possible, do not leave delivered packages unattended for long periods. If you are expecting a package, attempt to schedule its delivery when you know you will be home. Ask your neighbors

or local friends and family if they could pick up and hold on to packages delivered if you plan to be gone for an extended time during the holidays.

• Ship to the store .If purchasing an item from a retailer that has a physical location near your home, consider shipping it there instead. Retailers will require proof of purchase or identification before releasing packages they have received, and this is a sure way to avoid porch pirates.

• Use a security camera.

Installing a home security system with cameras or simply

a camera-enabled doorbell is a great way to deter package theft, especially when highly visible.

Consider including a sign that specifically states that the residence is under surveillance. Even if a package is stolen from your porch, the video evidence will help law enforcement track down the thieves. • Require a signature.

Many delivery companies include the option to require a signature before leaving a package, letting you take physical possession of the item as soon as it is delivered. While this option works well for those who are often at home, especially for expensive items, it may create difficulties in receiving packages if your schedule and the delivery service are different.

Be sure to check with the delivery company on their policy for packages that are not signed for; they may return it to the sender after a certain number of attempts.

• Consider a packagereceiving service. Some major retailers offer secure package receiving locations away from your home that you can access with a key or code.

Some independent businesses also specialize in this service, allowing you to designate a different delivery location for your packages and the ability to pick them up on your way home.

If you fear that your package has been stolen, file a report with your local police department and the delivery company.

Depending on which delivery service you use, they may offer insurance or other policies to reimburse you for your losses.

If using a delivery service, check with BBBHouston.org to learn more about the business.

For information, visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is BBB VP of operations. Send questions to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333

West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail lnapoliello@bbbhou.org with address and phone number.

Shutterstock Sometimes, your package may not be stolen at all, just simply at the wrong address. Before filing a report or contacting the sender, check with your neighbors and see if the delivery service may have dropped off your package at the wrong address.