As the holiday season approaches, Amazon’s Coraopolis facility is ramping up operations, shipping 77,000 packages daily, but concerns over package theft remain high in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
With a 400,000 square foot facility, Amazon is working to ensure packages reach their destinations safely. However, incidents of porch piracy, where thieves steal packages from doorsteps, continue to affect residents. Amazon suggests several measures to protect deliveries, including specifying less visible drop-off locations and using delivery notifications.
“As people get more deliveries to their home, we do see those porch pirate incidents,” said Marc Heintzman from Amazon Field Communications.
In Ambridge, a man was caught on video crouching beneath windows to steal a package from a porch, highlighting the ongoing issue of package theft in the area.
Amazon Operations Manager Jim Levis explained that contracted drivers are given day-specific routes monitored by the hub to address any delivery issues. “So we know if they have any problems that we can help them overcome those problems, whatever that may be,” Levis said.
In Cranberry, a theft occurred just minutes after a package was delivered, suggesting that delivery drivers might be followed by thieves.
Heintzman also advised that if you’re sending a gift, you can inform the recipient with tracking information to keep an eye on the delivery.
Security experts suggest you utilize key in-garage delivery, allowing a delivery driver to access your garage, place a package inside, and securely close your door. It’s a feature Amazon Prime customers can set up on the app.
Experts also suggest renting a P.O. box through the United States Postal Service or a locker at UPS.
For consumers who receive a large number of packages, a porch lock box might be a worthwhile option. The boxes retail for anywhere between $100 and $300 dollars. Delivery people can place a package inside and close the door, and only people with access to the key or code can take the package out.
After several thefts were captured on doorbell cameras in Marshal Shadeland, neighbors installed cameras as a deterrent. Heintzman recommended reporting thefts to local police and noted that Amazon’s customer service team is ready to assist victims of package theft.
While Amazon continues to enhance its delivery security measures, residents are encouraged to take additional precautions to protect their packages. As porch piracy remains a concern, vigilance and proactive measures can help ensure safe deliveries.
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