Few things are more frustrating than seeing “delivered” on your tracking page but finding nothing at your door. If this happens to you, you’re not alone, more than one in three Americans reported having a package stolen in the past year, making porch piracy the most commonly reported property crime in the U.S. Taking the right steps quickly can increase your chances of reimbursement and help you prevent future theft.
Related:
How to Report a Stolen Amazon Package
Step 1: Confirm Delivery
Before assuming theft, double-check the delivery status. Sometimes carrier systems update prematurely or mis-scan packages.
- Look closely at tracking updates for last-minute changes.
- Review delivery confirmation photos if available (Amazon, UPS, FedEx often provide them).
- Walk the perimeter of your property. Packages may be left near side doors, garages, or behind bushes.
It’s worth noting that nearly one in five packages initially believed to be stolen are later found misplaced, according to Security.org
Step 2: Check with Neighbors or Household Members
In many cases, someone else may have accepted the package on your behalf. Ask family members, neighbors, or apartment staff before reporting it stolen.
Roughly 17% of consumers already rely on neighbors to bring packages inside when they’re not home, and many “stolen” packages are actually just next door. (Capital One Shopping report)
Step 3: Contact the Seller or Retailer
If the package still hasn’t turned up, start by contacting the company you purchased from. Retailers have theft and loss protocols in place:
- Amazon: The A-to-z Guarantee often covers stolen packages, issuing refunds or replacements.
- eBay: Buyer protection policies may help recover lost items.
- Other retailers: Policies vary, but many will work with you if theft is reported promptly.
According to recent data, 45% of theft victims received a replacement from the seller, while 32% got a refund. But 25% of victims never received reimbursement at all, making quick action crucial. (Capital One Shopping report)
Step 4: File a Claim with the Carrier (If Applicable)
If the retailer defers responsibility, file a claim with the delivery company.
- USPS: Use the Missing Mail Search tool to report lost or stolen mail.
- UPS and FedEx: Both offer online claims processes for stolen or lost packages.
Nationally, USPS is cited in 18.3% of package theft reports, UPS in 15.7%, and FedEx in 17.1%. (Capital One Shopping report)
Step 5: File a Police Report (When Appropriate)
For high-value packages or repeat thefts, filing a police report is a smart move. In some cases, insurers and credit card companies require it.
Unfortunately, only 27% of theft victims report incidents to law enforcement, which can limit accountability. (Capital One Shopping)
Some states treat porch piracy as a felony (Texas, Michigan, Florida, and others), and Congress introduced the Porch Pirates Act of 2022 (H.R.6852) to expand felony protection to all carriers.
Step 6: Check Your Insurance Options
Don’t overlook insurance coverage:
- Homeowners and renters insurance: May reimburse stolen packages above your deductible.
- Credit cards: Many offer purchase protection if items are stolen after delivery.
Still, insurance is underused, only 11% of victims file an insurance claim after package theft (Capital One Shopping report).
Step 7: Prevent Future Thefts
Once you’ve addressed the immediate loss, it’s time to lower your risk for the future:
- Request signature-required delivery for valuable items.
- Use Amazon Lockers or pickup locations for secure retrieval.
- Sign up for delivery alerts from carriers.
- Consider a package lock box if theft is a recurring issue.
A trusted partner and dependable technology add another layer of protection:
- A video doorbell camera provides both a visible deterrent and evidence.
- Security cameras extend coverage beyond the front door.
- 24/7 professional monitoring ensures fast response even when you’re away.
Nearly half of consumers already use video doorbells and security cameras to monitor deliveries, and 20% opt for alternate delivery locations.
You Might Also Like:
Take Back Control of Your Deliveries
A stolen package is stressful, but most cases can be resolved through refunds, replacements, or claims. By acting quickly and adding extra layers of protection, you can minimize your losses and avoid repeat thefts.
Prevention isn’t just about saving money, it’s about peace of mind. Guardian Protection offers solutions that put you back in control of your deliveries
.Request a free quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions
First, confirm delivery status, check around your property, and ask neighbors or family members. If it’s truly missing, contact the retailer to start a claim.
Yes, especially if the package is valuable or theft is recurring. A police report may also be required for insurance or credit card reimbursement.
Responsibility varies. Amazon and many retailers cover losses, but in some cases carriers handle claims. If neither resolves the issue, insurance or credit card protections may apply.
Yes, but coverage depends on your deductible and policy terms. It’s often most useful for high-value items.
Use secure delivery methods (signature, lockers, alternate addresses) and layer on security tech like video doorbell cameras and security cameras.