Tips to prevent your packages from being stolen

As the holidays approach, more Canadians shop online. Last year, consumers in Canada planned to spend about 37 per cent of their gift budget online, reports Statista, an international market and consumer analysis company. 

With all these added deliveries, it’s also prime time for thieves to steal packages right from your front door. With all these additional deliveries, it's prime time for thieves to steal packages right from your front door. Data shows that one in four shoppers has experienced package theft, and many of those missing items hold significant value. Fortunately, there are reliable ways to help protect your shipments and keep them safe.

Fortunately, there are ways you can help protect your shipments. Here are tips to prevent your packages from being stolen.

Basic protection

If you expect to be home when packages arrive, ask the shipper to require a signature for delivery whenever possible. When you know you will be away from the house, you can ask the courier to leave the parcel with a trusted neighbour who can receive it on your behalf. 

Another great option is to simply pick up your package in-store rather than risking a home delivery.

If you are handy, you might consider repurposing an old chest or dresser into a secure delivery box for your parcels. You can place this container in an inconspicuous spot on your porch and secure it with a sturdy lock. Once you have it set up, just let your courier know how to access it safely.

Go high-tech

You can also combat would-be thieves effectively by using modern technology. Installing a doorbell camera allows you to easily monitor and record activity at your front door. Many of these devices are accessible directly from a smartphone and feature two-way audio, so you can speak to whoever is on your porch. You can pair this with motion-sensor lights to suddenly illuminate the area and scare away potential thieves.

Setting up standard security cameras also helps deter trespassers who do not want to risk being recorded. 

Alternatively, you can purchase a package guard or a porch pirate bag. This device is a reinforced nylon bag that locks securely to your front door or gate. You simply instruct the courier to place your package inside the bag and close it using the attached combination lock.

From surveillance cameras and smart lighting to smart locks and doorbells, Staples has the latest tech to help protect your packages. CAA Members earn 3 per cent back in CAA Dollars on select products online.