Protect Your Packages: SafeWise Highlights Tips for National Package Protection Day
SafeWise marked National Package Protection Day with its 2024 Package Theft Report, highlighting alarming trends in package theft during the holiday season. Over 120 million packages, worth $16 billion, were stolen this year, with New York City leading in total losses. Philadelphia and Chicago followed closely, with Chicago seeing the highest theft rates per capita. SafeWise offers actionable tips, such as using visible security cameras, scheduling deliveries for when someone is home, and working with neighbors, to help homeowners safeguard their deliveries. For victims of theft, SafeWise outlines steps to report incidents and recover losses.
William Carlin
02 Dec 2024 5:32 PM
Celebrating Package Protection Day
National Package Protection Day, observed annually on the Wednesday after Thanksgiving, serves as a timely reminder for holiday shoppers to safeguard their deliveries as online shopping surges. This year, SafeWise marked the occasion by releasing key insights from its 2024 Package Theft Report to help homeowners prevent package theft during the busy holiday season.
The Scope of Package Theft
According to the report, over 120 million packages were stolen across the U.S. in 2024, resulting in a staggering $16 billion in losses. New York City ranked as the worst city for package theft, with approximately $1 billion in losses and nearly 60% of households targeted last year. Philadelphia and Chicago followed, with Chicago experiencing the highest per capita incidents—728 out of every 1,000 households faced theft in 2023.
Safety Tips to Protect Your Deliveries
Rebecca Edwards, Lead Safety Expert at SafeWise, emphasized proactive measures: “Simple actions like installing a security camera or tracking packages can make a big difference in preventing theft.” SafeWise recommends:
- Installing visible security cameras.
- Scheduling deliveries for times when someone is home.
- Opting for secure delivery locations.
What to Do If You Experience Package Theft
If a package is stolen, homeowners can take the following steps:
- Contact the seller: Nearly half of surveyed victims received replacements, and 32% secured refunds after reporting theft to retailers.
- Report to the carrier: 14% of victims obtained refunds from delivery carriers.
- Report to law enforcement: While typically categorized as general larceny, more states are enacting specific laws to address package theft.
Explore More Insights
The full 2024 Package Theft Report, including the top 10 worst cities for package theft, is available at SafeWise.com.
About SafeWise
SafeWise.com is dedicated to promoting safer living at home and in communities. Offering expert recommendations, product reviews, and insights into national crime and safety trends, SafeWise empowers individuals to make informed decisions to protect themselves and their families.
This National Package Protection Day, stay vigilant and take steps to ensure your holiday deliveries arrive safely.