Package Stolen from Apartment Lobby: How to Prevent?

Package theft has always been a problem but in recent years it has become a critical issue. In this era where many people live in apartments and online shopping is mostly preferred, people are often left with nothing, but the frustration of their package stolen from the apartment lobby.

Hence, it is high time to learn how to prevent package theft in apartments. This way both residents and property management can ensure that the packages reach the real owners.

Package Theft Statistics in 2024

According to CapitalOnlineShopping.com, almost 14% of Americans revealed that their package had been stolen at some point. 33% of these Americans have had their packages stolen more than once.
These stolen packages have an estimated yearly value of over $13.4 billion. It means that the approximate average value of a stolen package is about $112.30. These thefts happen more often in the period when there are many deliveries, for example, before the New Year.

Why is the Package Stolen from the Apartment Lobby Easily?

Packages are usually stolen from Apartment lobbies since they are less secure. Most apartments have not installed secure package lockers or CCTV cameras in the lobby. It allows thieves to steal parcels.

Also, this problem is due to the high amount of foot traffic and minimal supervision from property management. The way delivery personnel can drop off all the packages in a common area without needing to save them with the people living there also contributes to the issue of theft.

How to Prevent Package Theft from Apartment Lobby?

Preventing package theft from the apartment lobby can be simple. However, it needs the residents and the property management to take the right steps as described below:

For Property Management

Here is everything the property management needs to do at their end:

• Secure Package Lockers
  Property management must install secure package lockers in the units. These lockers will keep the packages safe until the residents can pick them up by accessing the locker. Since no unauthorized person can access these lockers, the packages will remain safe.

• Access Control Systems
  Installing control systems at the property means the property management will prevent unauthorized people from entering the lobby. It means that no external person can steal the packages. Hence, the package security for that building will significantly increase.

• Install Security Cameras
  Installing security cameras at all essential points ensures that nobody goes unnoticed whenever passing through the lobby. Hence, even when someone steals the package, his face and other identification features can be noticed. Meanwhile, the security unit at the property can act immediately to recover the package from that thief.

For Residents

As a resident, you must follow the following practices to prevent package theft.

• Scheduled Deliveries
  One of the smartest ways to prevent package theft is scheduling deliveries when you are at your apartment. This way you will know when it arrives, and you can immediately pick it up and bring your package inside. Hence, narrowing the time for which your package will stay out of the house, gives thieves a chance to steal it.

• Install Smart Video Doorbell
  Buy a video doorbell that is smart to monitor delivery services. It can also alert you when a parcel has been delivered and record video clips. Hence, it is possible to watch people at the doorstep. The videos recorded by such doorbell cameras can be very helpful in the identification of your package thief.

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• Package Tracking
  Use package tracking sites to keep track of the products. This service can make you get notifications for when your parcel has left the depot and when it arrived. This means that you can be able to pick up their package as soon as possible to minimize the instances of theft.

• Require Photo Confirmation and Signature of Package Delivery
  Request that delivery services require a photo confirmation and a signature upon delivery. This ensures your package is handed directly to you rather than left unattended. It also provides proof of delivery and reduces the risk of packages being stolen from the lobby.

What to Do if Your Package Gets Stolen from an Apartment?

When you get a sign that your package has been stolen, be sure to look around your home and surrounding compounds to check if it was lost. Watch all accessible security camera recordings to get to the bottom of the situation.

Inform the delivery service and the retailer; most of them provide a replacement or return the stolen package. Also, report the stolen item to the police for investigation purposes. Think about changing the schedule for the next deliveries or a delivery to a secure locker.

FAQs

1. What to Do if a Neighbor Steals a Package?

If you have solid evidence against your neighbor, then you must go to the neighbor and confront them calmly. If the problem is not solved, contact the property management or even the local authorities. It is advised to file a report with the delivery service so you might get a replacement or your money back.

2. Who is Liable if My Package is Stolen?

Liability usually rests with the recipient after delivery of goods. Inform the seller and the delivery service about the theft and ask for information regarding the option to get a replacement or a refund. There are times when stoles packages can be claimed from insurance companies.

Conclusion

Package theft has become a serious issue, and it can be easily prevented by taking the right measures. Cameras and secure lockers can be used by the property management. Residents must schedule deliveries and use video doorbells.

These are the measures that you can take and remain alert to ensure your deliveries are secure. However, if one of your packages is still stolen then you must go for a refund from the delivery service or the seller.