
Porch Pirates: How to Handle Package Theft During the Holidays
The holiday season means a surge in online orders, and unfortunately, a corresponding uptick in package theft. In 2024, as many as 58 million packages were stolen nationwide, resulting in an estimated $12 billion to $16 billion in losses.
Apartment residents are especially vulnerable, experiencing theft at nearly twice the rate of single-family homeowners. For multifamily property managers, the rise in “porch piracy” is more than a seasonal headache: it’s a reputational and operational challenge that can directly affect resident trust and retention.
Below are five strategic, actionable tips designed to help property managers understand how to handle package theft more effectively this holiday season.
According to ShipMatrix, national holiday package volume is expected to rise another 5% this season, adding pressure to mailrooms and lobbies already bustling with guests and events. And with colder weather and more residents staying home, maintenance and communication demands also increase.
This holiday survival guide for multifamily highlights seven smart, proactive ways to prepare your property so you can keep things merry, bright, and under control.