As of late 2024, online purchases generate about 22 billion packages each year! However, not all reach their intended destination. Package thieves – known colloquially as “porch pirates” – steal many deliveries right from our doorsteps and yards. Porch pirates stole $12 billion in packages in 2024, and as many as 58 million Americans have become victims.
Criminals seem to target certain residential building types more than others; homes with more occupants tend to experience higher theft rates. Line 6 requires a signature for Helix product family and guitar purchases made at our branded online shops. For further protection, we encourage you implement one or more of these general "porch piracy" prevention measures:
- Get security cameras.
- Install external lights and/or signs.
- Use tracking apps.
- Sign up for UPS My Choice: View and Track All Shipments With UPS My Choice® | UPS - United States. They offer a free version and a Premium version.
- Make sure someone is home at the time of delivery.
- Coordinate with your neighbors and let them know you have a high-value package coming.
- Have the package delivered somewhere else if you suspect you may be targeted.
- Request a signature confirmation.
- Send the package to a remote pick-up location provided by the carrier.
- Purchase a package guard or porch pirate bag, a nylon bag that locks to your front door or gate. Instruct the courier to place your package inside and close it using the combination lock.
- Get Amazon Key (driver puts your package in your home).
What to look into if your package is stolen:
- Track the package.
- Check if your neighbors saw it or held on to it for you.
- Contact the seller or retailer, as their relationship with the carrier may offer additional resources than they'd offer a recipient.
- File a claim with the shipping company.
- Use the purchase protection features on your credit card.
- File a home insurance claim.