Theft is a fairly common crime in the United States. It’s estimated that it happens every five seconds. So it’s a significant problem in the country, and it’s starting to have new variants. One particularly new variant is package theft.
Package Theft
Theft can be a huge hindrance to a business, and package theft contributes to this crime. Package theft is the unauthorized taking of items shipped to a specific location. Employees or outsiders can do it, and it often targets high-value items. It’s an ongoing problem for small and big businesses alike. It costs businesses over $9 billion annually, and the problem is becoming more rampant as it becomes left unchecked.
There are a few reasons why this type of theft happens:
- Poor security around shipping areas: This is one of the most common reasons for package theft. If there is no security camera or alarm system in place, it’s easy for thieves to take packages without being caught.
- Lack of tracking information: This theft happens because many businesses don’t follow their shipments. Without tracking information, knowing when a package was stolen and who took it is difficult.
- Employees stealing packages: In some cases, employees may steal packages from their employers. It can happen for various reasons, including financial need or simply because they have access to the packages.
- Outsiders stealing packages: In other cases, outsiders may steal packages from businesses. For example, this can happen if the company has poor security or the package is left in an insecure location.
- Poor packaging: Sometimes, packaging can lead to package theft. Thieves might easily see what’s inside if a package is poorly packaged. That information then incentivizes them to take the package.
Thankfully, there are various ways small businesses can handle package theft. The first option is to have a robust tracking system implemented.
Tracking System
Knowing where your package at all times is essential for businesses that ship high-value items. A tracking system can also help companies to track their employees’ movements. This way, if an employee does steal a package, the business can track them down.
If you want to implement a robust tracking system, you’ll need a few things. The first thing you’ll need is a vehicle anti-theft GPS tracking device. It will help you monitor your employee’s movements and ensure that they’re not giving packages to criminals they associate with. Furthermore, it’s also helpful in keeping your assets in check, especially your company vehicle.
The next thing you need is a package tracker. A package tracker will help you keep track of your shipments, and it’ll help you quickly take action and report the theft to the authorities.
Lastly, you’ll need a monitoring system. A monitoring system will help you monitor your assets and employees in real-time. It can give you real-time information as to what they’re doing and where they are.
Security Systems
One way to do this is by installing security cameras in and around shipping areas. Security cameras can deter thieves from stealing packages. They can also help businesses identify thieves if a theft does occur.
Another way to increase security around shipping areas is by installing motion-sensor lights. Motion-sensor lights can deter thieves and help businesses identify them if they steal a package.
Package Lockers
Another way businesses can handle package theft is by using package lockers. Package lockers are secure storage units that can be used to store packages. They often have security features, such as locks and alarms. This can help deter thieves and protect your packages.
Your package lockers can come in many forms. They can be as simple as a filing cabinet with a lock. Or, they can be more sophisticated, such as a package locker that uses biometrics to unlock.
The important thing is that you choose a package locker that meets your needs. You’ll also want to consider the security features vital to you.
Shipping Insurance
Package theft might be hard to stop, but that doesn’t mean you should lose enormous profits. This is where shipping insurance comes in.
Shipping insurance is a type of insurance that businesses can use to protect their shipments. For example, the business can claim with their shipping insurance company if a package is stolen. The company will then reimburse the business for the value of the stolen package.
This can be an important safety net for businesses that experience package theft. It can help them recoup some of their losses and continue operating.
Conclusion
Package theft is a severe problem that businesses need to be aware of. There are various reasons why it happens and multiple ways businesses can handle it. However, being prepared for it can minimize its impact on your business. Implement all the tips above to ensure that your packages stay secure.
