What To Do If Your Package Gets Stolen This Holiday Season

The holiday season is all about joy, giving, and those exciting moments when packages arrive at your doorstep, filled with surprises for loved ones.

But let’s be honest—nothing kills that holiday cheer faster than realizing your package is missing or, worse, stolen. With so many of us shopping online during the holidays, package theft has become a real issue.

If this has happened to you, don’t panic. You’re not the first, and you definitely won’t be the last. There are clear steps you can take to handle the situation and even ways to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

This guide will walk you through what to do if your package goes missing and share tips to protect future deliveries so you can focus on enjoying the season without the stress.

What to Do If Your Package Is Stolen

1. Verify the Delivery Status

Before assuming your package is stolen, confirm its delivery status:

• Check the tracking number from the retailer or shipping carrier.
• Look for delivery updates in your email or app notifications.
• Sometimes, carriers mark packages as “delivered” a day or two before actual delivery.

2. Check Nearby Areas

Delivery drivers may leave packages in hidden spots like behind planters or furniture to protect them from theft. Inspect your porch, mailbox, and other common drop-off locations.

3. Ask Your Neighbors

It’s possible your package was delivered to a neighbor by mistake or held for safekeeping.

4. Review Security Footage

If you have a video doorbell or security camera, check the footage to confirm if the package was delivered or stolen. Save any suspicious activity as evidence.

5. Contact the Retailer

Most online retailers, such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target, have customer-friendly policies for stolen packages.

• Report the issue to their customer service.
• Provide order details, tracking information, and any evidence, like security footage.
• Retailers often offer replacements or refunds.

6. File a Claim with the Shipping Carrier

If the retailer isn’t able to assist, file a claim directly with the shipping carrier:

• USPS: Report the theft to USPS and file a claim for insured packages.
• UPS: Visit the UPS claims page to report your missing package.
• FedEx: Use the FedEx claims process to seek reimbursement.

7. Report the Theft to Local Authorities

While package theft is a federal crime in the U.S., the chances of recovery are slim. However, filing a police report creates an official record and helps law enforcement track patterns in your area.

8. Check with Your Credit Card Company

Many credit cards, including those from American Express, Visa, and Mastercard, offer purchase protection. Call your issuer to inquire about reimbursement for stolen packages.

How to Prevent Package Theft This Holiday Season

1. Use Secure Delivery Services

Opt for delivery options that reduce the chances of theft:

• Require a signature upon delivery.
• Choose Amazon Locker, UPS Access Point, or FedEx Hold at Location for secure pickups.

2. Install Security Cameras

Video doorbells like Ring or Nest deter thieves and provide evidence if a theft occurs. Ensure they cover your porch or delivery area.

3. Schedule Deliveries for When You’re Home

Set delivery times to align with your availability. Most carriers allow you to reschedule or customize delivery times through their apps.

4. Provide Specific Delivery Instructions

Request that packages be left in concealed locations, such as a back porch or inside a screened area.

5. Use Theft-Prevention Tools

Consider using package lockboxes or anti-theft devices. These secure your deliveries and make it harder for thieves to steal them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What should I do if my package is marked as delivered but I can’t find it?

Start by checking nearby areas and asking neighbors. If it’s still missing, contact the retailer or shipping carrier to report the issue.

Q2: Can I get a refund for a stolen package?

Yes, many retailers and shipping carriers offer refunds or replacements for stolen packages. Additionally, your credit card may provide purchase protection.

Q3: How common is package theft during the holidays?

Package theft spikes during the holiday season in the U.S., with an estimated 1.7 million packages stolen daily. Taking preventative steps is key to avoiding theft.

Q4: Are shipping carriers like UPS or FedEx responsible for stolen packages?

Generally, shipping carriers are not liable once a package is marked as delivered. However, they may reimburse you if the package was insured or lost before delivery.

Q5: Can I insure my packages for theft?

Yes, many carriers offer shipping insurance at an additional cost. It’s worth considering for valuable items.

Conclusion

Package theft can be frustrating, but knowing the steps to take can help you recover your lost items or receive compensation.

By being proactive with preventative measures like secure deliveries, surveillance, and package insurance, you can protect your holiday packages from theft.

This holiday season, don’t let porch pirates steal your joy. Plan ahead, stay informed, and ensure your gifts make it to their destination safely. 🎁