A stolen package is a delivery that never arrives or arrives damaged or empty. To report it, contact the carrier (USPS, UPS, FedEx) first, then file a police report if needed.
First, check the tracking information to confirm the package was marked as delivered. If it shows delivered but you didn't receive it, contact the carrier immediately. Provide them with the tracking number and details about the missing package. Most carriers have a specific time frame (often 24-48 hours) during which you can file a claim.
Each carrier has its own process for reporting stolen packages. Here's how to report a missing package to the major carriers:
If the carrier's claim process doesn't resolve the issue, file a police report. Law enforcement agencies often require proof of purchase, such as a receipt or order confirmation, along with the tracking information. Some carriers, like USPS, may require a police report before processing a claim for high-value items.
According to the FBI, package theft is a growing problem, especially around holidays. Filing a police report helps document the crime and may assist in recovering stolen goods.
Some carriers offer insurance for lost or stolen packages. If you purchased shipping insurance, file a claim with the carrier and provide documentation of the loss. The insurance company will typically reimburse you for the value of the stolen items, minus any deductible.
If you didn't purchase insurance, some carriers may still compensate you for the loss, especially if the package was insured by default for high-value items. Check the carrier's policies for specifics on compensation limits and claim procedures.
To reduce the risk of package theft, consider using services like Amazon Locker or USPS Delivery Instructions, which allow you to specify where and when your package should be delivered., request signature confirmation for high-value items to ensure they are delivered safely.
I once had a package stolen from my porch. After reporting it to the carrier and filing a police report, I started using a package lockbox. It's a small investment that provides peace of mind.