The merchandise you recently ordered to take advantage of online shopping deals will be arriving soon and porch pirates will be prowling neighborhoods attempting to steal your loot.
Law enforcement officials say the best way to prevent theft of packages from outside your home is to invest in a security system or Ring cameras. Porch pirates usually strike in the middle of the day when people are at work. They typically target residences such as subdivisions, apartment complexes and homes with clear sight lines to the street.
Annual losses due to package theft hit $13.4 billion in 2023, or $112.30 per package, according to a report by Capital One Shopping.
There are several ways to prevent your packages from being stolen. The Better Business Bureau suggests the following:
Don’t leave packages unattended
• If you are expecting a package, attempt to schedule its delivery when you know you will be home. Ask your neighbors if they mind holding on to packages delivered if you plan to be gone for an extended time.
Ship to store, storefront or post office box
• If purchasing an item from a retailer with 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.
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.
Opt-in to notifications
Most retailers provide tracking details with links to delivery services; some even send their own emails to let you know when something has landed on your stoop.
Recent changes at the United States Postal Service (USPS) aimed at improving efficiency and cutting costs may lead to slower mail delivery for some customers, potentially impacting Northwest Mississippi, USPS said in a press release.
Concerns have been raised locally about delays at processing facilities in Jackson and Memphis, which serves a wide area, including Northwest Mississippi. These delays have prompted congressional intervention and efforts to improve service.
Staffing shortages throughout the country, including in rural areas of Mississippi, were also listed as reasons for mail delivery delays.
USPS said for the most up-to-date information on service disruptions in your specific area, residential customers can visit the Mail Service Disruptions website or call the USPS customer service center at 1-800-ASK-USPS (800-275-8777). You can also sign up for Informed Delivery to receive a digital preview of your incoming mail.
