What do You do When Your Parcels Are Stolen?
Share
Delivery drivers have to handle between 40 and 120 packages a day. Their tight schedule means they don’t hang around and parcels are left on the doorstep or partially posted through the letterbox. This offers thieves the chance to get their hands on your goods. So, what do you do when your parcels are stolen?
How Many Parcels Are Stolen Each Year in the UK?
Research conducted by Quadient* reveals that 3,876 reports of stolen packages were made to UK police forces between August 2023 and July 2024. Yet, as many people don’t involve the police, the number of incidents is believed to be around 10,910.
Parcel theft is highest in apartment blocks, where deliveries are often left in communal entrances. Firstly, it’s easier to gain entry into the building, either by using the buzzer or waiting for someone to come out. And, with many occupants not knowing their neighbours, this can be achieved without suspicion. Secondly, it’s possible to pick up multiple packages in one go.
In some cases, this is the work of opportunist thieves, who grab abandoned packages from doorsteps as they pass, or boldly remove exposed mail which is wedged in the letterbox. However, a recent article in the Independent suggests that some residents believe their neighbours are guilty of pilfering their deliveries.
Your First Steps When a Parcel is Stolen
If your expected parcel is not there, the first step is to check with the courier. They have tracking information and usually photograph the delivery drop-off. Therefore, they can confirm whether or not the delivery has been made. Also, they might inform you if the package was left in a ‘safe place’ or with a neighbour.
If they confirm delivery, check all areas around your house or apartment block and ask neighbours if they’ve kindly taken your parcel in.
If there is no sign of the parcel, contact the seller or retailer. It is their responsibility that the delivery arrives and they may have a refund or replace policy. You can also file a police report, which provides a record of the incident. This can be helpful if you decide to claim on insurance.
How to Prevent Parcel Theft
To reduce the risk of parcel theft you can:
· Update delivery preferences with couriers to notify them of a safe place to leave packages.
· Opt for packages to be sent to a collection point, such as lockers or a shop.
· Pick your time to shop, so avoid ordering items before weekends away and holidays.
· Install a secure parcel drop box at your house.
Parcel Drop Boxes for Home Use
As specialists in external letterboxes and parcel boxes, we are often contacted by customers who need a lockable, anti-theft solution for home use. We offer a selection of sizes, styles and fitting options, to best suit your property.
The ParcelPod1 wall mounted parcel box is a compact and cost-effective option for a daily drop-off. However, if you regularly receive multiple deliveries or are often away from home, an option with a larger capacity hold, such as the Goldcrest or Buzzard. These free standing parcel boxes are manufactured in Europe to comply with European standards. They are tested for weather resistance, anti theft and security.
If you are more concerned about preventing letters from being stolen, we also offer Cerberus, our enhanced security anti theft post box.
“Great quality product… so much more secure than the previous box we had, which you could put your hand in to retrieve mail, which can’t be done with this design.”
Do you have questions about which parcel box is right for your home? Just give our team a call on 01296 839401. We’re recognised for our helpful customer service and knowledgeable team.
“Absolutely excellent customer service. I phoned to check if my order was confirmed and the lady I spoke to was so friendly and professional. She also thanked me for the business which was appreciated. The delivery was so speedy and definitely exceeded my expectations.”
*https://www.parcelpending.com/en-gb/resources/the-2024-parcel-theft-report/