More than 58 million packages were stolen from doorsteps across the United States in 2024.
That translates to over $12 billion in direct losses, according to data compiled by Security.org. This figure represents just the beginning of the impact. When customer refunds, re-shipments, and operational costs are factored in, the overall expense to businesses can increase exponentially.
Retailers often absorb these costs to maintain customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Amazon, for example, frequently replaces stolen packages without requiring extensive verification.
However, this goodwill is becoming increasingly costly. As noted by a 2023 report from SafeWise, 79% of Americans have experienced package theft in their lifetime, and nearly 36% reported it had happened more than once.
Some urban areas have become hotspots for theft. Cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and Denver consistently rank among the worst-hit metros. The rise in e-commerce deliveries, especially during holiday seasons, further compounds the issue, creating predictable windows of opportunity for thieves.
Retailers: Innovating to Protect Deliveries
Retailers are adopting increasingly sophisticated measures to address the theft epidemic. One of the most successful strategies has been the rollout of alternative delivery locations.
Amazon’s Hub Lockers and “Amazon Counter” partnerships with convenience stores and retail chains such as Rite Aid and GNC allow consumers to retrieve parcels securely. Similarly, Walmart has expanded its use of in-store pickup and automated pickup towers, which store online orders until claimed by customers.
Beyond alternative delivery options, many retailers are investing in real-time delivery notifications and proof-of-delivery systems.
Amazon, Target, and Best Buy routinely provide photo confirmation of deliveries, allowing customers to verify that packages were dropped off at the correct address. Companies like AfterShip and Route offer delivery tracking and insurance integrations that allow consumers to monitor the shipping process and file claims quickly in the event of theft.
Retailers are also turning to smart technology. Some brands have begun piloting the use of secure parcel drop boxes or lockers installed at consumers’ homes.
These solutions, like the Danby Parcel Guard or Yale Smart Delivery Box, provide a locked, tamper-proof container that delivery drivers can access using a one-time code. E-commerce companies are also testing drone-based or robotic deliveries that can place items in less accessible or safer areas—though these technologies are still largely in trial phases.
Delivery Companies: Strengthening Last-Mile Security
Major parcel carriers are playing a critical role in developing and promoting porch piracy countermeasures.
UPS’s “My Choice” service gives customers the ability to re-route deliveries, choose specific delivery windows, and receive alerts when packages are near or delivered.
FedEx’s “Delivery Manager” offers similar services, allowing recipients to direct packages to secure FedEx Office locations or request delivery to alternate addresses.
The United States Postal Service (USPS), facing rising package theft issues despite its historic position as a federal institution, has rolled out “Informed Delivery.” This program emails customers a digital preview of incoming mail and packages, which helps consumers anticipate delivery and retrieve items promptly.
In terms of operational protocols, FedEx and UPS have trained drivers to avoid leaving packages in exposed areas. Drivers are now encouraged to place items behind planters, columns, or other obstructions that might reduce visibility from the street.
For higher-value shipments, both carriers increasingly require direct signature upon delivery—a policy that, while effective, adds logistical complexity and requires customers to be available during delivery windows.
Third-Party Delivery Services: Adapting With Flexibility
Third-party logistics and gig economy delivery providers like DoorDash, Shipt, and Roadie have introduced novel solutions that prioritize flexibility and customer coordination.
These companies typically offer tighter delivery windows and in-app communication tools, enabling recipients to provide real-time instructions on where and how to leave packages.
Veho, a rising player in last-mile logistics, allows customers to track their drivers live and communicate with them directly to avoid insecure drop-offs. The company reports a significant decrease in theft reports as a result of real-time engagement and dynamic delivery rescheduling.
Circuit, a logistics routing platform, provides drivers with photo documentation capabilities and route optimization to reduce delays and missed deliveries, further limiting the risk of theft from delays or miscommunication.
Gig platforms have also enhanced internal vetting. Services like Instacart and Postmates have introduced rigorous driver background checks and conduct frequent performance reviews to ensure accountability.
Furthermore, 3PL companies are experimenting with delivery to car trunks via connected vehicle services like Amazon Key In-Car Delivery, which allows drivers to drop packages directly into locked cars with customer authorization.
Legislative Measures: Aiming for Stronger Deterrents
Legal measures are gaining traction as public awareness and frustration mount. Multiple states have passed laws elevating package theft to a felony under certain conditions.
In Texas, for instance, theft of mail or packages can result in up to 10 years in prison if the crime involves ten or more items. Florida's HB 401, passed in 2024, classifies porch piracy as a third-degree felony, carrying up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
On the federal level, the proposed Porch Pirates Act would close a legal loophole by extending current federal mail theft penalties—traditionally limited to U.S. Postal Service parcels—to items delivered by private carriers like UPS, FedEx, and Amazon Logistics.
Although not yet passed, the legislation reflects increasing bipartisan concern over the scope and cost of the issue.
Local governments are also stepping in. In Washington, D.C., law enforcement agencies have partnered with neighborhood watch programs and doorbell camera companies like Ring and Nest to monitor activity and pursue suspects based on video evidence.
Cities like Las Vegas have launched public education campaigns encouraging residents to install security cameras and avoid unattended deliveries.
Conclusion
As online shopping becomes a permanent fixture of consumer behavior, porch piracy is likely to remain a persistent threat unless addressed through multi-layered mitigation efforts.
Retailers, delivery companies, and third-party services have demonstrated innovation and agility in developing responses—from real-time tracking and secure lockers to drone trials and legal reforms.
Experts caution that technological tools alone may not suffice. Ongoing collaboration between businesses, policymakers, and consumers will be essential. Clear communication, flexible delivery scheduling, insurance coverage, and legal deterrence must work in concert to protect the modern supply chain.
Only by treating porch piracy as a shared societal issue can the growing costs—financial and otherwise—be kept in check.
