The holidays are officially here. With Thanksgiving officially behind us and Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about package safety. After all, we all want nothing more than the gifts you purchase with love to find their way to the intended recipient, not porch pirates who work so hard to dampen our holiday spirits.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) will deliver approximately 15 billion pieces of mail and 800 million packages between Thanksgiving and the end of the year. From holiday cards filled with cash and holiday messages to packages containing the latest Nintendo Switch games and fun gadgets, a lot of deliveries will be made. However, as we have implied, package theft is a big problem at this time of year. And so, the team here at Mailbox Project wants to provide some tips to keep your mail and packages safe this holiday season.

The Impact of Porch Piracy on Holiday Package Safety 

Package and mail theft tends to surge during the holidays, making it a pressing concern for many households. The sheer volume of packages—800 million delivered by USPS alone—offers ample opportunities for thieves to strike. 

Homes without protective measures, such as security cameras or lockable mailboxes, are especially vulnerable. With the average stolen package valued at around $50, the financial toll of porch piracy quickly adds up. It reaches billions of dollars nationwide during the busy shopping season.

So, how can you keep your packages safe this holiday season? We have some tips and suggestions.

1. Schedule Deliveries for When You’re Home

Choose delivery times or locations that work with your schedule. Man carriers offer options to schedule a drop-off when someone will be home. Alternatively, have packages sent to your workplace or a trusted friend’s house. This helps reduce the chance of a package sitting unattended.

2. Invest in a Secure Mailbox or Package Locker

A lockable mailbox or package delivery locker offers a strong layer of protection for your deliveries. These options provide a safe space for your packages, preventing porch pirates from simply walking away with them. They’re handy for those who frequently shop online and receive valuable items during the holiday season.

3. Add Technology to Your Home

Home security devices like doorbell cameras can monitor package deliveries and deter thieves. Many systems send alerts when movement is detected, allowing you to keep an eye on your front porch even when you’re away. Some carriers also work with smart lock systems to leave packages inside your home or garage for added safety.

4. Work with Your Neighbors

Consider coordinating with neighbors to watch out for each other’s deliveries. If you’re expecting a package and won’t be home, ask a neighbor to grab it for safekeeping. Similarly, you can do the same for them. Building a sense of community can go a long way in reducing package theft.

5. Request Special Delivery Options

Take advantage of carrier-specific delivery features like requiring a signature or rerouting packages to secure pickup locations. Many carriers offer drop-off services at nearby stores or lockers, keeping your items safe until you can retrieve them. These options add an extra layer of convenience and security to your holiday package deliveries.

Mailbox Project Wishes You a Happy Holiday Season 

At Mailbox Project, we want your packages to arrive safely. We know there is nothing better than seeing someone’s eyes light up when they open that special gift that they have been wanting. So, if you need assistance with a smart mailbox to keep your mail and packages safe, contact us to get a quote today. In the meantime, follow our blog for more great mail tips and insights.

Happy Holidays!