You’ve been tracking your delivery for what seems like years and then it happens. The app says ‘delivered’ but there is no sign of your parcel. Panic! Unfortunately, doorstep parcel theft has become one of the fastest-growing consumer crimes in the UK, with thousands of parcels disappearing from doorsteps each week. I regularly provide delivery tips for lost or delayed parcels in the media but how can you prevent parcel thefts? What action can you take if your parcel is stolen? Read on to find out.
Image by Tung Lam from Pixabay
Get one step ahead
Start by taking control of where your parcels need to be delivered to. Most couriers now offer flexible options such as:
Safe place settings: Choose a secure, out-of-sight spot like a side gate or back porch.
Neighbour or friend delivery: Register a trusted neighbour with your delivery account.
Local collection point or locker: Amazon Lockers, InPost or local parcel shops keep your packages safe until you collect them at your convenience.
Signature on delivery: For high-value items, always select signature required.
These options can stop your parcel from ever being left in plain sight, the number one cause of doorstep thefts.
Create home deterrents
Opportunistic thieves move quickly so anything that slows them down or catches them on camera is usually enough to send them packing.
Install a visible doorbell camera — even a basic model can act as a strong deterrent.
Purchase a secure parcel box — a lockable container bolted to a wall or the ground gives couriers somewhere safe to drop deliveries.
Post a deterrent sign — ‘CCTV in operation’ is very effective even if you’re using dummy cameras.
These easy, simple steps can make it clear your home isn’t an easy target for parcel thefts.
Don’t advertise your deliveries
Avoid making it obvious when a valuable package has arrived.
Break up boxes before putting them in the bin re leaving outside for recycling.
Ask retailers to use plain packaging.
Rotate delivery safe spaces so thieves can’t predict where parcels are left.
Set clear delivery instructions
Couriers often have seconds to make a drop, so spell it out clearly in your online order notes. For example:
“Please deliver to the side gate and place parcel inside the lockable parcel box. If box is full, return to depot. Photo of delivery is required.”
Clarity reduces confusion and leaves less room for expensive excuses and mistakes.
If the worst happens
If your parcel is stolen:
Check tracking and photos to confirm delivery details.
Ask neighbours if they saw or collected it.
Contact the retailer immediately so they can investigate. Remember your contract is with the retailer and NOT the courier.
Report it to the police for a crime reference number.
See refund via method of payment if appropriate ( Section 75 Credit Card, Chargeback Debit Card, pls note latter has limit of 120 days)
Keep evidence to support your claim- phone calls, dates, names, emails, livechat transcripts and photos.
In summary
In summary for most households, the best protection is a mix of visible cameras (dummy or working), deterrent signs, lockable parcel boxes, a variety of safe place locations and clear saved delivery preferences. These are simple, affordable and effective steps you can take to prevent parcel theft. Prevention is always easier than cure.
By taking control of your delivery options, setting up a few deterrents and communicating clearly with couriers, you can have peace of mind that your parcels will be safe.
Image by Davie Bicker from Pixabay
