With holiday buyers at risk to lose nearly $300 per adult to package theft this season, it’s never a better time to stop porch pirates. But that’s not easy: As the latest theft reports show, it’s very hard to stop thieves who can run up and grab packages within seconds. That’s bad news for Black Friday and Cyber Monday shoppers.
While video doorbells that can immediately recognize packages help, they don’t deter the speediest thieves. Instead, we recommend a far older, entirely reliable solution for package theft that homeowners have used for hundreds of years: A box. But this isn’t any ordinary box: These cleverly designed package delivery lock boxes are made to solve a very specific theft problem: Here’s how they work.
Read more: The Best Cheap Video Doorbells
What exactly is a package lockbox or delivery box?
A package lockbox is a dedicated box, about the size of a trash bin, that sits by your front door. They have receptacles for depositing and storing larger packages that wouldn’t fit in traditional mailbox locked compartments. They come in many different designs and colors and can easily blend in with your porch palette. Delivery people secure packages in the box when no one’s home to get them, and they stay safe for later retrieval.
These kinds of delivery boxes have been used for centuries in areas that don’t have American mailboxes, flats where doorways are close together with busy streets, or areas where wind and rain easily damage packages. Now they offer one of the best ways to stop frequent porch pirates.
Can’t porch pirates just open the box?
Not usually. These delivery boxes typically have a deposit tray or section where people place the package, which is dropped down to a larger compartment secured by a lock. That makes it really difficult for porch pirates to reach in and grab a package. Other boxes may lock entirely with a keypad, so owners can give codes to a delivery person. Some even connect to phone Bluetooth and apps for more control. And if porch pirates can’t see a visible package, they’re much less likely to try a quick theft anyway.
How much does one of these boxes cost?
Most high-quality lockboxes cost between $200 and $300. You’ll have to pay a little more if you want smart features or keypads, but they stay under $400 in most cases.
Where can I order a delivery box like this?
You can find package delivery boxes from brands like Adoorn and home-friendly options from Keter. Merapi has especially durable versions made to fit inside a wall, while Loxx Boxx has the smartest delivery boxes we’ve found.
Can I use a package delivery box for groceries?
Absolutely. Some more-advanced boxes even have refrigerated compartments specifically for groceries (though this is rare for consumer boxes) so you don’t have to worry about produce being delivered while you’re away. That’s an even more important feature now that online grocery ordering has grown in popularity.
Where do I put a delivery box like this?
Right by your door or where packages are usually dropped off is the best spot. If delivery people tend to leave packages at the edge of your porch, you may want to put it by your porch steps. Brands like Keter are especially good at box designs that can match the siding on your home, but all brands have a range of colors so you can find something that matches your home (or just looks intimidating).
Could I just make my own package lockbox?
You can, which allows you to make a more decorative box, but it’s a lot of work. You’ll want weatherproof materials and a design that’s not easily accessed by determined porch pirates, along with a padlock or basic locking mechanism. It can be a DIY project for those comfortable with woodwork.
Are there any downsides?
Yes, there’s one notable downside to these protected delivery boxes: Delivery people have to use them in the first place. Some people install these package boxes then get frustrated when their delivery people completely ignore the box and leave packages by the door as always. In these cases, a sign on the box like “PACKAGES HERE” may help.
For more information on preventing home theft, visit our home security cheat sheet and our guide on deterring burglars before they try anything, and see the best options for outdoor cameras and cheap video doorbells.
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