What to Do When Your Package from Amazon Was Stolen

In today’s digital shopping era, the convenience of home delivery comes with an unfortunate risk: package theft. With nearly 260 million packages reported stolen last year in the United States alone—a staggering 10x increase since 2017—protecting your deliveries has never been more critical. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what to do if your package from Amazon was stolen, how to identify package scammers, and strategies to prevent becoming another package theft statistic.

The Growing Epidemic of Package Theft

Package theft has reached alarming proportions. With over 60 billion packages delivered annually in the United States, porch pirates have more opportunities than ever to snatch your valuable deliveries. These thieves, often called “porch pirates,” operate in both urban and suburban neighborhoods, targeting unattended packages left at doorsteps.

A new breed of criminal—the porch pirate—has emerged, stealing not just your packages but your sense of security. Like millions of others who have been victimized, you deserve solutions that put you back in control of your deliveries.

What to Do If Your Package from Amazon Was Stolen

Discovering that your package from Amazon was stolen can be frustrating and disheartening. Here’s what you should do immediately:

  1. Verify the delivery status: Check your Amazon account to confirm the package was actually delivered. Sometimes delivery notifications can be triggered prematurely.
  2. Search around your property: Delivery drivers occasionally place packages in unexpected locations to hide them from street view.
  3. Ask neighbors: Your package might have been delivered to a nearby address by mistake, or a neighbor might have accepted it on your behalf.
  4. Check your security cameras: If you have doorbell cameras or security systems, review the footage for evidence of delivery and theft.
  5. Contact Amazon: Report the missing package through your Amazon account. Amazon has a robust A-to-z Guarantee protection for most purchases.
  6. File a police report: While recovery is unlikely, a police report creates an official record of the theft, which can help identify patterns in your neighborhood.
  7. Notify your credit card company: Some credit cards offer purchase protection that may cover stolen deliveries.

Common Package Scammer Tactics to Watch For

Understanding packaging scams can help you avoid becoming a victim. Here are some common tactics used by package scammers:

Fake Delivery Notifications

Package scammers often send fraudulent delivery notifications via email or text, claiming you need to provide additional information to complete your delivery. These messages typically contain malicious links designed to steal your personal information.

Delivery Person Impersonation

Some thieves pose as delivery personnel, wearing similar uniforms or carrying fake packages. They might approach your door claiming they need to exchange a package or collect one for return, only to steal your legitimate deliveries.

“Missed Delivery” Tags

Package scammers may leave fake “missed delivery” tags on your door, asking you to call a number that connects to identity thieves rather than legitimate delivery services.

Fake “Redelivery” Fees

Be wary of requests to pay additional fees for redelivery. Legitimate delivery services typically don’t charge consumers directly for standard redelivery attempts.

Preventing Package Theft: Comprehensive Solutions

While knowing how to respond after your package from Amazon was stolen is important, prevention is always better. Here are effective strategies to protect your deliveries:

Secure Delivery Solutions

The most reliable way to prevent package theft is using a secure package delivery system. Products like the Parcel Safe Defender provide a physical barrier between porch pirates and your packages.

These innovative security systems range from simple mechanical solutions starting at $599 to advanced smart safes with real-time notifications, cameras, and remote access control. Think of them as personal security guards for your deliveries—ones that never sleep, never take breaks, and cost less than a dollar a day.

Delivery Instructions

Most online retailers allow you to add delivery instructions to your order. Request that packages be placed in less visible locations, such as behind planters or furniture.

Package Delivery Tracking

Take advantage of tracking notifications offered by Amazon and other retailers. This allows you to know exactly when your package will arrive so you can plan accordingly.

Neighbor Assistance

If you have trusted neighbors, ask if they can collect packages for you when you’re not home. Many communities have also created neighborhood watch programs specifically focused on package theft.

Ship to Secure Locations

Consider having packages delivered to your workplace, an Amazon Locker, or for in-store pickup rather than to your unattended home.

Advanced Package Protection Systems

For those seeking the ultimate in delivery security, advanced package protection systems offer comprehensive solutions. The Defender Advantage represents a significant leap in package protection capability and technology.

These premium systems combine robust metal construction with advanced mobile technology, giving you peace of mind and unmatched control over your deliveries. Features include:

  • Real-time notifications when the package is delivered
  • Internal cameras that take pictures of delivered items
  • Custom PIN codes for delivery personnel
  • Remote access control from anywhere in the world
  • Vibration sensors and alarms to deter tampering

Whether installed in a wall or mounted on a pedestal, these systems ensure your packages remain secure until you’re ready to retrieve them.

The Rising Cost of Package Theft

According to research from Security.org, the average value of stolen packages is around $156, with many victims never receiving reimbursement. Beyond the financial impact, package theft creates significant stress and inconvenience.

For businesses relying on timely deliveries of supplies or equipment, the consequences can be even more severe. Missing deliveries can lead to project delays, unhappy customers, and damaged reputations.

Legal Consequences for Package Thieves

While package theft prevention is crucial, it’s also important to understand the legal consequences for those who steal packages. In many states, package theft is now being treated as a serious crime:

  • In Texas, package theft is classified as a felony with potential prison time
  • California has established specific laws targeting package theft
  • Federal mail theft charges can apply when USPS packages are stolen

Many communities are also implementing sting operations using GPS-tracked bait packages to catch serial porch pirates.

Taking Control of Your Delivery Security

As online shopping continues to grow, the problem of package theft will likely persist. However, by implementing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can significantly reduce your risk of having your package from Amazon stolen or falling victim to package scammers.

Remember, the best approach combines vigilance, technology, and community awareness. By taking proactive steps to secure your deliveries, you can enjoy the convenience of online shopping without the worry of package theft.

For the ultimate peace of mind, consider investing in a comprehensive package security system like Parcel Safe. These innovative solutions ensure your packages remain secure from delivery to retrieval, giving you complete control over your deliveries.

Don’t wait until after becoming a victim of package theft or a packaging scam—take action today to protect what’s yours.

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