The short answer: the best defense against package theft is a combination of three things: a camera that clearly sees the delivery spot, a way to talk to people at your door in real time, and delivery habits that keep packages from sitting out for hours.
Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the number of boxes sitting on Long Island porches jumps dramatically, and package thieves know it. The good news is that most porch pirates are looking for an easy grab. Make it harder and more visible, and most of them move on.
Step 1: Get the Right Camera View
A lot of doorbell cameras are installed in a way that shows a great view of someone’s face, and almost nothing of the package sitting at their feet.
- Make sure the camera sees the ground where packages land, not just the doorway
- Add a second camera covering the walkway, driveway, or street-side approach
- Choose quality footage. A grainy clip of a hooded figure rarely helps anyone. HD or 4K cameras with good night vision make a real difference. See our CCTV camera systems.
Step 2: Use Two-Way Talk
A video doorbell with two-way audio lets you answer the door from anywhere. A simple “Can I help you?” through the speaker stops most would-be thieves in their tracks, because now they know someone is watching.
Step 3: Light It Up
Most package theft happens in daylight, but deliveries after dark are common in December. Motion-activated lighting over the porch and driveway makes your camera footage clearer and your home a less attractive target. We also install outdoor lighting that ties into your system.
Step 4: Change How Packages Arrive
- Use delivery instructions to request a side door, back porch, or out-of-view spot
- Ship to work or to a trusted neighbor who’s home during the day
- Use carrier pickup locations or lockers for high-value items
- Track deliveries and bring them in promptly, or ask a neighbor to grab them
- Install a lockable package box if you get frequent deliveries
Step 5: Get Alerts That Matter
Set up smart alerts so you’re notified when a person is detected at the door, not every time a car drives by. Too many alerts and you’ll start ignoring them.
Business Owners: This Applies to You Too
Offices and storefronts receive more deliveries in Q4 as well, often left in vestibules or at back doors. A camera covering your receiving area and a clear delivery policy for staff prevents a lot of “it said delivered” headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a fake camera stop package thieves?
Sometimes, but experienced thieves can often spot them, and a fake camera gives you no footage if something is taken. A real, visible camera is a much better deterrent.
Does camera footage actually help recover stolen packages?
Clear footage helps when filing a police report and claims with the retailer or carrier. Good footage also helps your neighbors and local police spot patterns.
Can I add a doorbell camera to my existing alarm system?
In many cases, yes. Most modern alarm platforms support video doorbells and cameras in the same app as your alarm.
Talk to a Local Expert
CWC Security has protected homes and businesses across Nassau and Suffolk County since 2012. Call us at (516) 889-3600 or request a free consultation and we’ll walk your property and tell you exactly what makes sense, and what doesn’t.