The holiday season is magical. But package theft can ruin your cheer. You order the perfect gift online. You track its every move. Then you find…nothing. Porch pirates and mail thieves are rampant, especially in the Bay Area. Its dense communities and high delivery volumes make it easy to target.
But don’t worry—you’re not powerless. Here are some simple, effective ways to protect your packages this holiday season.
Why Mail Theft Spikes During the Holidays
Here’s the thing: the holiday season creates the perfect storm for mail theft. Everyone is shopping online. Packages are piling up. Thieves know they’re likely to find something valuable.
In places like Oakland, Emeryville, and other Bay Area neighborhoods, it’s even harder. Dense housing means shared mailrooms, open doorways, and fewer secure delivery options. Plus, the proximity to major cities gives thieves a quick escape route. It’s frustrating, but it’s reality. The good news? A little preparation can go a long way.
Meet the Bay Area’s Mail Theft Hotspots
Take a moment to think about your apartment or building. Does your mailroom have security cameras? Are packages left in plain sight? Do people often let strangers tailgate into secure areas? If you answered “yes” to any of these, your building might be a prime target.
For example, in Emeryville, a recent incident involved thieves using a master USPS key to access locked mailboxes in an apartment complex. Two suspects were caught on camera but made their getaway before police arrived. These types of scenarios are common, especially in high-traffic areas like ours.
Step 1: Get Smart About Delivery Options
Let’s talk about solutions. First, control how and where you deliver your packages:
Use Package Lockers
Services like Amazon Hub or UPS Access Points are game changers. Instead of leaving packages on your doorstep, you can pick them up at a secure location.
Redirect Deliveries
If your workplace allows it, have packages sent there. If not, see if a trusted neighbor or friend can receive deliveries on your behalf.
Schedule Deliveries
Many couriers offer options to select specific delivery windows. Plan to be home when your package arrives.
These small adjustments can make a huge difference.
Step 2: Make Theft Harder for the Bad Guys
Thieves are opportunists, so let’s make them work harder (or, better yet, scare them off entirely). Here’s how:
- Invest in Security Cameras: A doorbell camera like Ring can act as a powerful deterrent. Even in shared spaces, placing a camera outside your door can make thieves think twice.
- Upgrade Your Mailbox: If you have an unsecured mailbox, ask your property manager for a lockable one.
- Hide Your Deliveries: Add special instructions for delivery drivers. For example, ask them to leave packages behind a plant or in a hidden spot.
Step 3: Build a Safer Community
You’re not in this alone. Your neighbors are just as invested in stopping mail theft as you are, so why not work together?
Start a Neighborhood Watch. An informal group chat or a more organized effort can help. Keeping an eye on each other’s packages can prevent theft.
Be Aware of Suspicious Activity. If someone lingers in your mailroom or tries to follow you into the building, trust your instincts and report it. For residents in Emeryville, the non-emergency police line is (510) 596-3700.
Keep Your Entryway Secure. Don’t let strangers tailgate into your building. Always ensure doors close behind you.
Step 4: What to Do If You’re a Victim
Sometimes, even with all the precautions, theft happens. If it does, here’s your game plan:
- Contact the Delivery Company: Most carriers (like Amazon and UPS) have refund or replacement policies for stolen packages.
- File a Police Report: Reporting the theft helps police identify trends and catch repeat offenders, even if the item isn’t very valuable.
- Notify Your Property Manager: Tell them about the theft. They may take action, like installing security cameras or improving mailroom access.
Step 5: A Quick Fix for Apartment Complexes
If you’re a tenant, you know how frustrating it is to rely on property management to improve security. But sometimes, a nudge can work wonders. Suggest solutions like:
- Installing parcel lockers in mailrooms.
- Adding security cameras in common areas.
- Educating tenants on preventing tailgating and keeping doors secure.
Resources for Bay Area Tenants
Need extra help? Here are some useful links:
Report Suspicious Activity: Emeryville Police Department Non-Emergency Line – 510-596-3700.
Secure Delivery Options: Check out Amazon Hub or UPS Access Points.
Boost Your Home Security: Explore The Cal Agents’ blog on building a home security system.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep the Holidays Merry and Bright
Preventing mail theft isn’t about your gifts. It’s about your peace of mind. Stay vigilant, work with your neighbors, and be proactive. This will ensure your holidays are joyful, not frustrating.
Let’s make this season one to remember—for all the right reasons!
