West SFV Lifestyle

The West San Fernando Valley sees no shortage of thefts. Property crime and car thefts are commonplace unfortunately. It seems “porch pirates” aka package thieves are consistently a problem not only in our part of the valley, but everywhere right now.

As we continue to conveniently shop online, It is inevitable we will have to deal with porch pirates at one time or another. If you have the Ring App, you see it daily.  The absolute kicker is when someone reports a porch pirate for stealing a package yet they were home! Bring those packages in ASAP!

Alternatively, it’s not ideal that everyone is home when Amazon or UPS, FedEx, or USPS delivers. Consider these tips:

• To your work location or a friend or family member that will be home
• Make it “Signature Required”
• Pay for package receiving service like Postal Express 23705 Vanowen, West Hills, CA 91307  or UPS Store
• Get a PO Box at your closest Unites States Post Office 

If none of these are solutions for you then consider the other options I’ve outlined for you.

For Amazon Only Deliveries:

Amazon Hub Lockers

If it’s Amazon, there are Amazon Hub Lockers.Amazon Hub Lockers are FREE and you have 3 CALENDAR DAYS to pick up your items. Most items can be delivered, however, some cannot be delivered which you will figure out once you’re at the purchase and delivery screen.

Amazon Key In Garage Delivery

There is also the new Amazon Key In Garage Delivery.  Click here to find out more. It works with most garage door openers and Amazon leaves the packages in your garage instead of your doorstep. It’s FREE for Prime Members and you get $30 Amazon Credit after your first order!

For All Deliveries:

Ring Video Doorbell 2

A Ring Doorbell which is motion activated and you can speak through the Ring Doorbell if you have your phone nearby you to receive the alerts.  You don’t have to be home and can monitor your package.  It’s not the easiest option compared to the two listed above.  It’s still a good idea to have one of these because you can see what people are doing on on your front porch. An Amazon Choice and tons of reviews to help you make your decision.

Package Guardian

Package Guardian attaches to the top of your door and hangs out over the front of your door.  Durable weather resistant nylon that is easy to use, large enough for multiple boxes, locks with a padlock, has 44 feet of steel cable sewn into the back.  With 4.5 stars and over 32 reviews, this is a newcomer to the market, however seems very positive.

Express Package Delivery Box

Keep packages out of plain sight on your porch with this express package delivery box.  With over 500+ reviews and 4.5 stars on Amazon, this may be a good cost effective solution.  It’s available in 3 colors and under $50. Large and deep enough for most packages. One person mentioned in a review they filled in the word “Deliveries” with a silver pen and delivery drivers are utilizing it and they are very happy with their purchase.

Keter Package Delivery Box

Lockable box that can be placed on your porch to receive packages. Weather resistant. One way system-items can be placed in and not taken out unless you unlock the bottom locked area. “Amazon’s Choice” with +70 reviews and 4 stars. More costly than the above option, however this one you can lock.  Lock purchased separately.

Architectural Parcel Drop Box

This parcel drop box includes a pry resistant 3 point lock system with two keys. Comes in 4 colors. It includes an outgoing partition for outbound shipments.  Perfect for those times you need to return items and want them picked up instead of driving to a drop off center. Has 4 stars and 239 reviews. May be worth the investment if you receive packages frequently.

Package Delivery Place Packages in Box Metal Sign 

Pair this sign with the box options. Make is clear for your delivery drivers to know you have a box.  You can opt to place string on this and hang from your door when you know you are expecting a package or place this on your door mat to be more discreet. Some have opted to place this on their boxes.

These are the best options after reading many reviews on Amazon.  Although they don’t completely get rid of porch pirates, they can help prevent package theft by making it more difficult to steal your packages. Thieves are looking for the fastest and easiest way to steal so make it hard for them. Have any other tips?  Please share in the comments below.