Galveston County, TX

Porch Pirate is a term that has taken off with online shopping becoming increasingly more common. More than half of us have had a package stolen at one point or another. 17.9% of Texans have had a package stolen just in the last year. Package theft is also a reoccurring trend, meaning if you have had a package stolen, there is a good chance it may happen again. Keep your gifts safe by following these tips.

• Install a security camera. Doorbell cameras are getting cheaper over the years, and it is a good investment not only for your packages, but for your family's safety as well.
• Use curbside pickup. Many stores have curbside pickup now. You can do your shopping online and pick up at a location near you. The convenience of online shopping, with the safety of no delivery. Check to see if your online shop has this option.
• Require a signature. This will ensure that there is someone to receive the package, and it will not be placed at your door while you are away.
• Deliver to your office. If your office is okay with accepting packages during the day, consider having your packages shipped to your workplace. This has the added advantage of keeping it safe from gift snoopers at your house.
• Use a porch lockbox. Whether it is an Amazon lockbox, a store bought lockbox, or a home made one, these boxes are one way boxes meant to allow for deliveries and require a key or code to unlock. Use the "delivery instructions" in the website or app to instruct the driver to use your lockbox.
• Deliver to a PO box. The Postal Service will keep your packages safe for you until you have the time to pick them up.