When you order something online, the excitement of waiting for its arrival can quickly turn to frustration if your parcel goes missing or, worse, is stolen. Parcel theft, often referred to as 'porch piracy', is a growing concern for Australian consumers. The good news is that there are many proactive steps you can take to significantly reduce the risk of your deliveries falling into the wrong hands. This article provides practical, actionable advice to help you ensure your parcels arrive safely and securely.
Choosing Safe Delivery Locations
The first line of defence against parcel theft is to carefully consider where your parcels will be delivered. Your default home address might not always be the most secure option, especially if you're often away during delivery hours or live in an area with high foot traffic.
Deliver to a Secure Home Spot
If you must have parcels delivered to your home, communicate specific instructions to the delivery driver. Most online retailers and couriers allow you to add delivery notes during checkout or via their tracking portals. Consider these options:
Hidden Porch Area: Request delivery to a less visible spot, such as behind a potted plant, a garden shed, or a side gate, rather than directly on your front doorstep.
Secure Storage Box: Invest in a lockable parcel delivery box that can be affixed to your property. These boxes are designed to receive parcels safely, often with a one-way opening mechanism that prevents retrieval once a parcel is inside. Provide the access code or key location in your delivery instructions if required.
Neighbour's House: If you have a trusted neighbour who is usually home, ask if you can have parcels delivered to their address. This is a simple yet effective solution for occasional deliveries.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Leaving a note on your door saying 'Please leave parcel behind the bin' might seem helpful, but it also alerts potential thieves that a package is expected and where to find it. Always use digital delivery instructions rather than physical notes.
Deliver to Your Workplace
If your employer permits, having parcels delivered to your office or workplace can be a highly secure option. Most workplaces have reception staff or a mailroom to receive deliveries, and the premises are generally more secure than a residential doorstep during the day. Before choosing this option, always check your company's policy on personal parcel deliveries.
Requiring Signature on Delivery
One of the most straightforward ways to ensure a parcel reaches you and only you is to require a signature upon delivery. This option provides an extra layer of security, as the courier cannot simply leave the package unattended.
How Signature on Delivery Works
When you opt for signature on delivery, the courier will only hand over the parcel after obtaining a signature from someone at the delivery address. If no one is available, they will typically leave a 'missed delivery' card with instructions on how to collect your parcel from a local post office or collection point, or how to arrange a redelivery.
When to Choose Signature on Delivery
High-Value Items: For expensive electronics, jewellery, or other valuable goods, signature on delivery is highly recommended. The small additional fee (if any) is a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.
Unsecure Delivery Areas: If you live in an apartment building with an accessible common area, or in an area known for parcel theft, requiring a signature minimises the risk of the parcel being left unattended.
Important Documents: Any critical documents that cannot be easily replaced should always have a signature requirement.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Assuming all deliveries automatically require a signature. Many standard shipping options default to 'authority to leave' if no one is home. Always check the shipping options during checkout and actively select 'signature on delivery' if it's available and you require it. You can often manage your delivery preferences through services like Posttracking once your parcel is en route, allowing you to add a signature requirement even after purchase.
Using Parcel Lockers and Collection Points
Parcel lockers and designated collection points offer an excellent alternative to home delivery, providing a secure and convenient way to receive your online purchases. These services are becoming increasingly popular in Australia due to their flexibility and security.
Parcel Lockers
Parcel lockers are secure, self-service lockers located in various public places, such as shopping centres, train stations, and supermarkets. When you choose a parcel locker as your delivery address, the courier delivers your package to a designated locker. You then receive a notification, usually via SMS or email, with a unique access code to open the locker and retrieve your item.
Convenience: Access your parcels 24/7, at a time that suits your schedule.
Security: Parcels are held securely within the locker until you collect them.
Privacy: No need to share your home address for deliveries.
Retail Collection Points
Many retailers and courier services partner with local businesses (e.g., newsagents, pharmacies, petrol stations) to serve as collection points. When your parcel arrives, you receive a notification, and you can pick it up during the business's operating hours, usually by presenting identification.
Widespread Availability: Often more collection points available than lockers, especially in regional areas.
Staffed Service: Collection points are staffed, providing an extra layer of human security.
How to Use Them: During the checkout process on an online store, look for options like 'Deliver to a parcel locker' or 'Click & Collect'. You'll typically be prompted to enter your postcode to find the nearest available location. For more details on tracking your parcels to these points, you can learn more about Posttracking and how we help you keep an eye on your deliveries.
Installing Security Cameras and Smart Doorbells
Technology can play a significant role in deterring parcel theft and providing evidence if a theft does occur. Security cameras and smart doorbells are increasingly affordable and easy to install.
Smart Doorbells
Smart doorbells, such as those offered by Ring or Arlo, integrate a camera, microphone, and speaker into a doorbell unit. When someone approaches your door or rings the bell, you receive an alert on your smartphone, allowing you to see and speak to the person, even if you're not home. Many also offer motion detection and recording capabilities.
Deterrence: The visible presence of a camera can deter potential thieves.
Real-time Monitoring: Get instant alerts when a delivery driver or anyone else approaches your door.
Two-Way Communication: Instruct a delivery driver where to leave a parcel, or warn off suspicious individuals.
Security Cameras
For broader coverage, consider installing dedicated security cameras around your property, particularly aimed at your front door, driveway, and any other potential delivery spots. Modern wireless cameras are easy to set up and often come with features like night vision, motion detection, and cloud storage for recorded footage.
Evidence Collection: If a parcel is stolen, camera footage can be invaluable for reporting the incident to the police and the courier company.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a watchful eye on your property can provide significant reassurance.
Important Consideration: Ensure your cameras are placed legally and respect your neighbours' privacy. Focus on your own property and public access areas directly related to your deliveries. Regularly check that your cameras are functioning correctly and that their batteries are charged if they are wireless.
Reporting Missing or Stolen Parcels
Despite taking all precautions, sometimes parcels still go missing or are stolen. Knowing the correct steps to take can increase your chances of recovering your item or receiving a refund.
Step 1: Check Tracking Information and Delivery Location
Before assuming the worst, double-check the tracking information provided by Posttracking or the courier's website. Sometimes, parcels are marked as delivered but are actually at a local post office, a neighbour's house, or a designated safe drop location you might have forgotten about. Look for a 'missed delivery' card or notification.
Step 2: Contact the Seller/Retailer
Your first point of contact should generally be the seller or the online retailer from whom you purchased the item. They are responsible for ensuring the item reaches you. Provide them with your order number, tracking number, and a clear explanation of the situation. Many retailers have policies in place for lost or stolen items and may offer a replacement or refund.
Step 3: Contact the Courier Company
If the seller directs you to the courier, or if you prefer to investigate directly, contact the courier company (e.g., Australia Post, StarTrack, Aramex). Provide them with the tracking number and details of the issue. They can initiate an investigation into the delivery. This is where footage from your security cameras can be extremely helpful.
Step 4: Report to the Police (for Stolen Parcels)
If you have strong reason to believe your parcel was stolen (e.g., you have security camera footage of someone taking it, or the courier confirms it was delivered but you never received it), report the theft to your local police. While police may not always be able to recover the item, a police report can be crucial for insurance claims or for the retailer's investigation process.
Step 5: Check Home and Contents Insurance
Review your home and contents insurance policy. Some policies may cover stolen parcels, especially if they were taken from your property. Be aware of any excess fees and the specific terms and conditions of your policy.
By following these tips, you can significantly enhance the security of your parcel deliveries and enjoy your online shopping experience with greater peace of mind. For more detailed information on tracking and managing your deliveries, explore what we offer at Posttracking, or check our frequently asked questions.