Prime Day is here — 5 ways to avoid package theft

two boxes of amazon are stacked on top of each other prime day — Prime Day is a great day for deals — don’t let it get spoiled by the possibility of package theft. (Photo by ANIRUDH on Unsplash)

Amazon’s annual deal event, Prime Day, is happening July 16-17 — it’s a great opportunity to save big on top brands in various product categories. During this event, Prime members will find exclusive deals on all things entertainment, groceries, travel and more.

While Prime Day is an exciting occasion (and a great excuse to make that impulsive purchase you’ve been waiting on), it’s important to be aware of and take necessary precautions to avoid package theft, especially if you’ll be out of town or at work when your order gets delivered.

Keep the following methods in mind when making your purchases:

5 ways to avoid package theft after Prime Day

1. Opt in for tracking services

package tracking amazon — Tracking your package is the first step to ensuring you know the projected status of your delivery. (Curtis Venetta / Hville Blast)

After placing your order on Amazon, you may be able to track your package through Amazon Map Tracking — you can access this feature by selecting Track Package from Your Orders or your shipment confirmation email. It should look like the image above.

You can also enroll in services through your respective carriers (U.S. Postal Service, UPS, FedEx, etc.) for more specific details on your order.

2. Phone a friend

Person Holding Black Pen Writing on White Paper — Having a neighbor or friend take care of your package can take the stress off your shoulders. (Photo by Artem Podrez on Pexels)

This is a great option if you’re going to be out of town or simply not at home when your package is expected to be delivered.

Let a trustworthy neighbor or close friend know you have something being delivered. Request they either place it in a safe spot: inside their house, a safe spot outside your house or even inside your house (if they have a key).

3. Install a camera system or mailbox sensor

Many brands make home security systems suitable for your front porch like Arlo, Google, Blink Smart Security, Ring and more. Not only do many of these devices alert you when there’s motion at your door, but they will also record and save video for later viewing if needed.

If the package is going in your mailbox, brands like Ring and X-Sense make a mailbox sensor that will send a notification to your phone whenever your mailbox is opened.

4. Choose a different pickup location

a yellow wall with a pay phone in it — Package lockers are extremely convenient. (Photo by David Pisnoy on Unsplash)

If you’re already a Prime member, you can choose for your package to be delivered to an Amazon Locker near you. Amazon Lockers are self-service lockers that keep your packages secure until you are able to pick them up yourself. If you can’t find a locker close enough to you, other companies like UPS offer 24/7 locker service.

You can find Amazon Lockers at the following locations in the Huntsville area:

5. Choose in-garage delivery

You can also opt in for in-garage delivery through Amazon — keep in mind, this only works if you have a smart garage set up through myQ, Aladdin Connect or OHD Anywhere. Once you have one set up, the delivery driver simply scans your package to open your garage door and place it safely inside. Amazon will verify both the package and driver’s location before the door can even open.

Happy Prime Day and stay aware around your package’s expected delivery date! Not a Prime member? You can sign up today and secure your spot in line for Prime Day deals.

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