If you’re up to speed on tech news, you probably already know that Amazon recently purchased security company Ring. Ring is best known for its video doorbell system that allows homeowners to monitor their porches in real time. The acquisition might leave you scratching your head — what does Amazon want with a home security company? But purchasing Ring actually makes a lot of sense: the e-commerce giant wants to help manage the “last yard” of their deliveries.

The last yard

The last yard of delivery can be thought of as the tail-end of the last mile. It’s when the package is carried from the delivery vehicle to the recipient, completing the chain of custody. In a perfect world, completing the last yard would be as simple as a courier ringing a doorbell and someone answering to take the package inside. However, we all know it’s not realistic for people to wait at home for packages… and that’s a big disrupter for last yard logistics. Packages left unattended are perfect bait for people swiping goods right off of porches.

Package theft and security systems

Package theft has reached its highest level ever. A 2017 survey of 1,000 people revealed that 31% of respondents have had a package stolen off their porch.

Smart home security systems like Ring are great for monitoring properties and are often cited as a theft deterrent. But while security cameras and video doorbells might deter faint-hearted thieves, they won’t stop the most determined porch pirates from poaching packages.

Physically securing packages

Videos and photographs of your property are useful for catching folks who are up to no good. But in the case of package theft, bandits are usually caught well after the fact (or not at all). Implementing a way to physically secure packages will complement any home surveillance system and further reduce theft.

Here are a few ways to improve the last yard of delivery, making sure your packages end up in the right hands.  

Ship packages to your workplace

It’s not a great feeling to be at work wondering if your packages will still be waiting for you when you get home. Instead of sitting with the feeling of uncertainty, ask your workplace if they would be okay with you shipping packages to the office — many companies don’t mind at all.

Corporate facilities managers are considering implementing package lockers like Smiota PoDs. Package lockers offer employees and mailroom staff 24×7 convenience and secure package delivery.

Find apartments with package lockers

If you live in an apartment or are shopping around for one, ask if the facility offers package lockers. You might think that you’re being picky, but you’re not alone. In fact, 57% of those surveyed for the 2017 NMHC 2017 NMHC/ Kingsley Apartment Renter Preferences Report say they are very interested or highly interested in package lockers.

Install a package locker at your home

When packages are being delivered to your home on a regular basis, you could be putting yourself at higher risk for thieves noticing and making your home a target. So if you receive a lot of packages, physically securing your deliveries using a locker might not be such a bad idea.

In the very near future, you will be able to experience the same level of security that Smiota PoDs offer right at home. Keep an eye out for the announcement our new line of single-family PoDs!