lake forest shores

Package Delivery Theft

April 7, 2019

As you all know, shopping for practically anything can be done in the comfort of your home. Yep, online shopping has grown exponentially, but it does come with a well-known drawback! Due to the increase in package deliveries, theft is on the rise everyday of the week, including Sundays - a day of rest. Luckily, it hasn't happened to me, but I did hear the bad news from another resident regarding a couple unfortunate events.


It wasn't too long ago that I ordered a Shark Professional Steamer for approx. $100+ via online shopping. The package arrived at my door in the original packaging, so it wasn't enclosed in an unmarked shipping box. The part that got my attention is the package was left in plain sight closer to the road and away from the building, as shown in the example picture above. Of course, my delivery package was bigger, approx. 4ft in height.

It was at that point I decided to make changes to how I receive my online orders. I've listed a few ways to avoid becoming a victim to theft, but please remember that nothing is 100% guaranteed; it will simply lower the chances that you may become victimized.

Moreover, I'm not insinuating anything, but with the increase in online shopping and deliveries, companies are resorting to different delivery options; including the use of independent contractors.

Anyways, below are some steps you can take:

Use Amazon Lockers
Amazon Locker units offer secure lockboxes that you can use to receive or return orders. The option will be provided to you at checkout on numerous Amazon items.

Deliver Packages to Work / Office
This is one of my preferred methods when ordering online. I have the package(s) shipped to my work. So far, I've received them 100% of the time.

Require Signature on Deliveries
You could require signature upon delivery, if applicable, but it can be an inconvenience if you're not home. That means you'll have to wait another day, or schedule to go pick up your order at FedEx or UPS.

Delivery for Store Pick Up
Another favorite of mine is to have my order(s) delivered to the store. I've done this with Home Depot and Walmart without any issues.

Provide Delivery Instructions
More than always, there is a comment section to allow for delivery instructions. Let them know where you want the package placed, such as "please put the box behind the bushes by the door".

I'm sure there are other precautionary measures you can take, but these are a few that come to mind. Lake Forest is still one of the safest cities in California - ranked #46 - which is right behind Irvine - ranked #2 - LOL!

Lastly, this article is not meant to scare you, but to make you aware that no matter where you live, crime can happen anywhere you least expect it!