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How To Utilize Informed Delivery To Combat Package Theft

Sep 19, 2024|

Package theft is a growing problem in the United States, with millions of Americans falling victim to package thieves—also known as porch pirates—each year. The anxiety of waiting for a package that may never arrive can also spoil the convenience and excitement of online shopping.

Fortunately, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has a solution to help combat this issue: Informed Delivery. This service provides advanced notifications about your mail and packages, empowering you to take proactive steps to prevent theft.

In this guide, we'll explore how to use USPS Informed Delivery to protect your packages. We'll also discuss additional measures you can take to safeguard your deliveries and provide tips for dealing with package theft.

Packages being delivered on a front porch protected by the Doorbell Camera Pro.
 

What is USPS Informed Delivery?

USPS Informed Delivery is a free service that enables homeowners and renters to preview their mail and manage package deliveries online.

When you sign up for Informed Delivery, you typically receive daily notifications via email or through the USPS mobile app that show images of the exterior of your letter-sized mailpieces and tracking information for packages. This service is designed to keep you informed about what's coming to your mailbox so you can plan accordingly.

By using Informed Delivery, you can:

  • See a digital preview of your mail.
  • Receive advanced notifications for package deliveries.
  • View your mail tracking scan history.
  • Track your outgoing and delivered packages.
  • Schedule package redelivery.
  • Leave delivery instructions for your mail carrier.

These features can be particularly useful in preventing package theft, as they allow you to monitor your deliveries and take action if something seems amiss.

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How Informed Delivery helps combat package theft

One of the key benefits of USPS Informed Delivery is the comprehensive package tracking system. Informed Delivery customers are automatically opted-in to receive email notifications from USPS Tracking whenever there is an update on their package's delivery status.

These "Expected Delivery Updates" provide enhanced visibility and security, helping you stay ahead of potential porch pirates by allowing you to know when your packages are scheduled to arrive. You can then make arrangements like ensuring someone is home to receive the delivery or requesting that the package be held at your local post office for pickup later.

In addition to automatic tracking emails, users can opt-in to several other package notifications by going to the Informed Delivery settings page:

  • Day of delivery
  • Package delivered
  • Available for pickup
  • Delivery exception updates
  • Package in-transit updates

Package tracking email notifications will be sent to the email address used to enroll in Informed Delivery. It's important to note that if you update your email address for Informed Delivery Daily Digest emails, this will not automatically update the email address for package tracking notifications.

To update the email address for package tracking notifications, you must manually enter the new email address within Informed Delivery settings under "Package Notification Options." Additionally, you can choose to receive text notifications in addition to or instead of email.

Packages delivered on a front porch.
 

Tips for using Informed Delivery effectively

To get the most out of USPS Informed Delivery and avoid mail theft, consider these tips:

1. Set up USPS Informed Delivery. First, you'll need to sign up for USPS Informed Delivery by visiting usps.com and following instructions to create a personal or business account. Once you're signed up and have verified your identity, you can adjust your settings and start receiving notifications about your mail and packages via email, the USPS mobile app, or the online dashboard—usually within a few business days.

2. Monitor notifications and take timely action. Regularly check your Informed Delivery notifications and act quickly when you receive a package. If you're not home, arrange for someone to pick up the package right away or use delivery instructions to specify a safe place for the carrier to leave it.

3. Combine Informed Delivery with other security measures. For maximum protection, integrate Informed Delivery with other security measures, such as home security systems, video doorbells, or package lockers. Vivint offers a range of smart home security products that can help you keep an eye on your deliveries and deter potential thieves.

4. Download the USPS mobile app. The USPS mobile app provides convenient access to Informed Delivery notifications and other USPS services. With the app on your smartphone, you can receive updates about your mail and packages, track deliveries, and manage your mail preferences on the go. The USPS mobile app is available in the Apple App Store and Google Play.

USPS Informed Delivery FAQ

Read answers to some frequently asked questions about Informed Delivery.

Who is eligible for USPS Informed Delivery? How do I check my eligibility?

USPS Informed Delivery is available to residential consumers, post office box holders, and some business addresses in eligible ZIP code areas. To check your eligibility, begin the Informed Delivery sign-up process and follow the prompts to enter your mailing address.

Is there a cost associated with USPS Informed Delivery?

No, USPS Informed Delivery is a free service offered by the United States Postal Service.

What types of mail and packages are included in USPS Informed Delivery?

USPS Informed Delivery includes letter-sized mailpieces and packages that USPS tracks. It provides images of the exterior of letter-sized mail and tracking updates for all incoming and outgoing packages.

Can I use USPS Informed Delivery with other carriers like UPS, FedEx, and Amazon?

While USPS Informed Delivery primarily covers USPS deliveries, you may be able to use third-party apps to aggregate tracking information from multiple carriers, providing a centralized dashboard for all your deliveries.

Package being delivered to a home with a Vivint yard sign.
 

The Role of retailers and delivery companies

Retailers and delivery companies play a crucial role in ensuring the security of your packages. Collaboration between USPS and retailers can enhance the effectiveness of Informed Delivery by providing more accurate tracking information and delivery updates.

Companies like Amazon and FedEx are already implementing secure delivery practices, such as providing customers with delivery notifications and offering options for secure package drop-off. Here's a look at some of their services:

  • Amazon Key. Amazon offers a service called Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery, which allows delivery drivers to place packages inside your home or garage. This requires a smart lock, a security camera, and a Prime membership.
  • FedEx Delivery Manager. FedEx's Delivery Manager tool allows you to customize delivery times and locations. You can request that packages be held at a FedEx location for pickup or redirected to a different address.
  • UPS My Choice. UPS provides a free service (UPS My Choice) that allows customers to reschedule deliveries, provide delivery instructions, and redirect packages to UPS Access Points.

Taking advantage of USPS Informed Delivery and similar services can reduce the risk of package theft and ensure that more packages reach their intended recipients safely.

Additional steps to protect your packages

While USPS Informed Delivery is a powerful tool in combating package theft, combining it with other security measures can provide even greater protection. Here are some additional steps you can take:

Install security cameras and video doorbells.

Security cameras and doorbell cameras are among the most effective tools you can use to deter package theft. Knowing they're being watched reduces the likelihood of criminal activity. Here's a rundown of the three main types of security cameras:

  • Basic security cameras. These cameras monitor specific areas around your home, such as entry points like the front door, back door, or garage. Features often include motion detection, night vision, and storage for recorded footage.
  • Smart security cameras. These cameras work with your home automation system and offer advanced features like facial recognition, two-way audio, and integration with other smart devices. With smart security cameras, you can receive alerts on your smartphone and view live footage from anywhere.
  • Indoor security cameras. While primarily used for indoor surveillance, these cameras may be able to help monitor package deliveries if positioned near windows or doors.

Video doorbells combine the functions of a doorbell and a security camera. They provide a live video feed of your front door, allowing you to communicate with visitors through a built-in speaker and microphone. Here are some key features:

  • HD video: Provides a clear, high-definition video feed of your front door area.
  • Night vision: Ensures visibility even in low-light or completely dark conditions.
  • Motion detection: Alerts you to any movement near your front door.
  • Two-way audio: Allows you to speak with delivery personnel or potential thieves directly, even if you're not home.
  • Cloud or local storage: Saves video footage for later review, which can be useful if you need to report theft to law enforcement.

When selecting security cameras and video doorbells for your home, consider the following factors:

  • Field of view. Ensure the camera covers a wide area to capture all activity near your delivery points.
  • Resolution. Higher resolution cameras (like 4K security cameras) provide clearer images. This makes it easier to identify individuals and other key details.
  • Storage options. You can often choose between cloud or local storage (e.g., microSD cards), but some models offer both options.
  • Integration. Opt for devices that integrate with your existing smart home system for seamless operation.
  • Power source. Decide between battery-operated or wired cameras based on installation convenience and reliability.

Knowing that your home is under constant surveillance gives you peace of mind, especially when you're not there.

Use package lockers.

Package lockers are storage units where your packages can be delivered and secured until your arrival. They're often located at retail locations, apartment complexes, and post offices. Only someone with the provided QR or access code can open the package locker to retrieve the items.

Some popular package locker services include Amazon Locker, UPS Access Point, and USPS Smart Lockers. These options provide a secure place for your packages until you can pick them up at your convenience.

Get a P.O. box.

Renting a P.O. box at your local post office is another secure option for receiving mail and packages. P.O. boxes are available in various sizes and can be accessed during post office hours. Some post office lobbies are even open all day, every day. A P.O. box is particularly useful for receiving sensitive or valuable items.

Coordinate with your neighbors.

Start or join a neighborhood watch program—a community initiative where residents work together to monitor and report suspicious activities in their area.

Neighbors can keep an eye on each other's homes and report questionable activity. You could also arrange with your neighbors to have packages delivered to a central location, such as a secure porch or garage. This reduces the likelihood of packages being left unattended.

Account for holidays and vacations.

The holiday season is a peak time for package theft. To protect your deliveries, consider using alternative delivery options, such as having packages delivered to your workplace or using a package locker. If you're expecting valuable items, request signature confirmation for delivery.

If you're going on vacation, put a hold on your mail using the USPS mobile app or ask a trusted neighbor to collect and hold onto your packages while you're away.

Packages waiting on a home's front porch.
 

Dealing with package theft

Despite taking precautions, package theft can still occur. Here's what to do if your package is stolen once you're certain it has happened:

  1. Contact local law enforcement and delivery company. Immediately inform your local police department and the USPS Postal Inspection Service (or other applicable delivery company) of the theft. Provide them with all relevant information, such as tracking numbers, delivery notifications, and security camera footage.
  2. File a report. Filing a police report with local law enforcement and a report with the USPS (or other applicable delivery company) helps initiate an investigation and increases the likelihood of recovering your stolen items. It also helps agencies track and address package theft trends in your area.
  3. Prevent identity theft. Package theft can sometimes lead to identity theft if sensitive information is stolen. Monitor your credit card statements, use identity theft protection services, and report any suspicious activity to your financial institutions. If you become a victim, report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission so they can provide a recovery plan.

Secure your deliveries and peace of mind with Vivint

USPS Informed Delivery is an invaluable tool for combating package theft. Its advanced notifications and detailed tracking information enable you to take proactive steps to protect your packages. Add other measures like security cameras, video doorbells, and package lockers, and you can greatly reduce the risk of package theft.

Don't wait until you've experienced package theft to take action. Explore Vivint's range of smart home security products to keep your home and packages secure. Your peace of mind is just a few clicks away. 

Call us at 855.822.1220 for a free consultation today.

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