What to do if porch pirates steal your packages

November 30, 2018 11:09 PM

Ariana Lake,

Posted: November 30, 2018 11:09 PM

Updated: May 20, 2021 8:35 AM

by Ariana Lake

What to do if porch pirates steal your packages

SPOKANE, Wash. — More and more people are turning to online shopping to check off items from their holiday shopping list. All those packages are tempting thieves to come to your house.

Almost 26 million Americans reported having a package stolen from a porch or doorstep during the holidays, according to a 2017 survey from InsuranceQuotes.com. If you’re not part of that percentage yet, you may be one day.

So here’s what you can do if someone steals a package off your step this holiday season:

Start by tracking your package. Most companies send a confirmation email with tracking information once you’ve purchased an item.

Realize that there can be shipping delays, especially during peak shipping times. Check your shipping status is an easy and quick way to see where your package is and when it’s scheduled to arrive.

If the item is listed as delivered, but it’s not there, contact the company you bought it from.

Each seller will have different policies for for handling cases of theft. Many times, you can get a refund or the item replaced.

You can also file a claim with the shipping company.

USPS, FedEx, and UPS offer an online claims process you can use to report a missing item or you can call them.

Your credit card may offer purchase protection. That program may include reimbursement for stolen items that you purchase with your credit card. Each credit card provider should have a section on their website detailing the purchase protection program and how to file a claim.

Some companies require you file a police report before you file a claim with the company.

Many homeowners and renters insurance policies may also cover stolen packages. But, you’ll have to weigh the potential of your insurance premium increasing after a claim and many packages won’t be valued above your deductible.

There are plenty of ways to deter thieves and prevent theft. Read more here.

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