How to Prevent Package Theft This Holiday Season
September 30, 2025
Quick Summary
With more deliveries arriving at your doorstep during the holiday season, package theft becomes a bigger concern for many homeowners. The right combination of technology, delivery strategies, and preventative habits can dramatically reduce your risk. This guide covers the most effective ways to protect your packages, secure your porch, and keep your home monitored and prepared.
Make your porch bright, visible, and clearly monitored.
Use delivery instructions, require signatures, or pick up at secure locations.
Pair a doorbell camera with outdoor cameras to improve front-of-home visibility.
Save video evidence and contact carriers promptly if theft occurs.
Wrap it all with 24/7 monitoring and smart mobile alerts for peace of mind.
How to Make Your Home a Hard Target for Package Thieves
An uncluttered, well-lit entry discourages theft and makes security devices more effective. Bright lighting, trimmed shrubs, and visible cameras send a clear message that your home is being watched. Small additions like a parcel shelf can keep packages off the ground and less visible from the street while staying in view of your camera coverage.
Light and Stage Your Porch to Deter Theft
Install bright lighting at entry points.
Maintain clear sight lines with trimmed landscaping.
Use a small parcel shelf or a discreet placement that keeps packages out of direct street view while remaining in camera coverage.
Cameras should cover both the door and the approach.
Visible cues like security system yard signs and window decals in some cases can also serve as simple deterrents, letting visitors know your home is actively monitored.
How to Control Deliveries to Prevent Package Theft
Help prevent package theft by managing how and when deliveries arrive. Use carrier instructions to request hidden drop-off spots, as long as they’re still in camera view. In addition, require signatures for high-value items, or consolidate orders for days when someone is home. Smart motion alerts and mobile notifications can keep you informed in real time, even when you’re away. Cameras with two-way audio also let you speak directly to anyone approaching the door.
How to Use Doorbell and Outdoor Cameras to Prevent Package Theft
A doorbell camera is a great start for capturing faces and recording deliveries, but broader coverage matters too. Placing an outdoor camera where it can see the yard or street adds an extra layer of visibility and deterrence. When paired with motion-activated alerts or lighting, these systems help detect suspicious activity early and improve overall protection.
A doorbell camera captures faces and package drop-offs.
Custom activity zones help prevent unnecessary alerts.
Street-facing cameras provide early visibility of people or vehicles approaching your home.
Two-way audio lets you speak to visitors or deter suspicious behavior in real time.
How to Build Daily Habits That Prevent Package Theft
Even the best tech needs to be paired with thoughtful routine. Retrieve packages quickly or ask a trusted neighbor to help when you’re out of town. Avoid posting delivery photos on social media until items are safely inside and break down boxes before recycling to avoid signaling what’s inside.
What to Do If a Package Is Stolen
Immediate Steps:
Save and download video clips that show the theft.
File a nonemergency police report with supporting evidence.
Contact the retailer or shipping provider to begin a claim.
If USPS was involved, report the theft to postal inspectors.
Adjust alert settings or camera coverage to prevent package theft in the future.
Why Brinks Home™?
Choosing the right security partner can make all the difference in how you protect your home. Brinks Home delivers tailored solutions designed to meet your needs, providing professionally installed video doorbells and outdoor cameras, smart home alerts, and 24/7 monitoring — all working together to keep your home secure, connected, and prepared through the holiday season and beyond. If you’re ready to take the next step in protecting your home, get in touch with a Security Consultant and let the professionals at Brinks Home build you the perfect home security system for your needs.
FAQ
Do I need to worry about camera placement?
No—with professional installation from Brinks Home, your cameras are expertly positioned to cover both the delivery zone and the approach, so you don’t have to determine optimal device placements yourself.
Is a doorbell camera enough to stop porch pirates?
It’s a strong start, but adding a second camera with a wide view of the front yard or street increases your visibility and deterrent power.
How does Brinks Home help with package theft prevention?
Brinks Home provides professional installation, alerts via the mobile app, and 24/7 monitoring with swift alarm response. Together, these benefits of a Brinks Home system help ensure you are protected from unwanted.
