The Rise of Parcel Thefts in the UK and How to Protect Yourself from Porch Pirates
Parcel thefts in the UK have surged to a value of £666.5 million in the last year, with thefts costing approximately £290 million more than in 2024. Many incidents remain unreported. Leicestershire has been identified as a hotspot for these crimes, with city and town centers as well as multi-occupancy buildings facing higher risks. December, the peak delivery season, sees an especially high volume of thefts.
The rise in parcel thefts is attributed to increased online shopping, the popularity of non-signature deliveries popularised by platforms like Amazon, and cost pressures on couriers. The shift to contactless delivery during the Covid era also contributed to the problem. Thieves often exploit parcels left in building lobbies or outside homes, unsecured doors in shared buildings, or by following delivery drivers. Some thefts are even carried out opportunistically by neighbours.
To prevent theft, consumers are advised to choose same-day or signed-for deliveries, use work addresses or locker/out-of-home delivery options, ensure addresses are correct, consider parcel lockers or other secure drop options, and request couriers to avoid visible drop sites or to knock and wait for collection. Police encourage victims to report thefts to improve statistics and aid investigations. Arrests have been made through intelligence-led operations, and video doorbells have proven effective in catching thieves. Social media has seen circulation of bait-package pranks as a form of retaliation.
Retailers like Gousto have refunded customers affected by parcel thefts, while some individuals have tried to tackle the problem themselves through bait packages. The overall emphasis lies in reducing theft risk through smarter delivery choices and improved practices by brands and couriers.
