How secure is a package drop box?

Package drop boxes have become increasingly popular as a convenient way for consumers to return and send packages without having to go inside a post office or retailer. These freestanding boxes are located outside of post offices, shipping stores, apartment buildings, and other locations for easy 24/7 access. While package drop boxes provide a lot of convenience, some people may be wondering just how secure they really are. There are a few factors that determine how safe your package is when using one of these receptacles.

How do package drop boxes work?

Package drop boxes are designed with security in mind. Most feature an opening slot at the top where you can insert your prepaid, sealed package. The opening is generally wide enough to accommodate larger packages but not so wide that someone could reach inside and remove contents. Once a package is inserted, it falls down into a locked compartment only accessible by authorized personnel with keys or codes. Most package drop boxes are constructed out of thick, durable steel or reinforced plastic to prevent theft or tampering. They are securely bolted to the ground or building structure. Many feature security cameras to monitor activity and help identify any potential issues.

Are package drop boxes secure?

Package drop boxes are generally considered very secure, especially those located at post offices and staffed shipping stores. According to the United States Postal Service, incidents of lost packages or mail theft from blue USPS boxes occur at a rate of less than 1% annually. Private carriers also report extremely low rates of theft from their branded drop boxes. The minimal theft and loss is due to several security features:

• Thick metal or reinforced plastic construction prevents breaking in
• Locks keep compartments sealed until opened by authorized workers
• Cameras monitor activity and deter potential thieves
• Tamper-evident seals or mechanisms reveal if a box has been compromised
• Package drop boxes are regularly inspected and cleared by staff

Workers responsible for emptying drop boxes follow strict protocols for collecting, transporting, and scanning packages to maintain accountability and security throughout the process. Overall, using a package drop box is exponentially more secure than leaving an item on your porch for pickup.

Best practices for using drop boxes

While package drop boxes are quite secure, it’s impossible for them to be 100% tamper-proof. Follow these tips for optimal safety when using one:

• Only deposit prepaid packages – don’t leave cash or checks
• Use official branded drop boxes at reputable locations whenever possible
• Avoid obscure locations with low foot traffic
• Don’t use drop boxes at night when fewer people are around
• Only deposit items that can fit fully within the slot – don’t force oversized packages
• Make sure the package is sealed with official tape, labels, and postage
• Get a receipt with tracking number – don’t deposit packages anonymously
• Inspect the drop box for signs of damage or tampering before use
• Notify the carrier or owner if a drop box seems faulty or compromised

Following these simple precautions provides additional peace of mind when placing important packages into a drop box.

How likely is a package to be stolen from a drop box?

The chances of a package being stolen from a secure, reputable drop box are extremely low overall. According to analysis of major insurance provider claims, less than 1% of packages deposited in drop boxes are reported lost or stolen. Tens of millions of parcels go through drop boxes in the U.S. each year with the vast majority arriving safely without incident.

Factors that make theft unlikely include:

Secure construction

Most drop boxes are made from thick steel or reinforced plastic that resists cutting, prying, and breaking. The opening slot is sized to prevent access to the locked compartment inside. Any signs of damage or attempted entry will be obvious.

Constant monitoring

Many package drop boxes feature 24/7 video surveillance to deter thieves and monitor activity. Criminals know their actions will be recorded, making drop boxes a less desirable target.

Routine collection schedule

The locked compartments inside drop boxes are regularly emptied by authorized workers. Packages don’t sit inside for extended periods, minimizing the window for potential theft.

Tracking and accountability

Every package scanned into the carrier’s system is accounted for when collected from drop boxes. Missing items can be swiftly tracked down before theft occurs.

Consequences for getting caught

Postal inspectors and law enforcement take drop box theft seriously. Getting caught stealing mail results in federal charges and steep fines or jail time. This deters casual criminals from attempting it.

While it’s possible for theft to occur at poorly placed or maintained drop boxes, the overall risk is low. Responsible carriers minimize opportunities for criminals by integrating security features and protocols.

How many packages go missing from drop boxes annually?

Out of the enormous volume of packages handled by USPS, UPS, FedEx and other carriers each year, only a tiny fraction of items deposited in drop boxes are reported lost or stolen. While exact numbers fluctuate annually, here are average estimates:

USPS blue collection boxes

• Over 560 million packages deposited annually
• Less than 0.01% reported missing or stolen

This translates to just a few thousand packages annually out of over half a billion, making USPS drop boxes extremely secure.

UPS drop boxes

• Over 80 million packages deposited annually
• About 0.003% reported missing or stolen

That’s around 2,400 packages lost or stolen from UPS drop boxes per year.

FedEx drop boxes

• Around 62 million packages deposited annually
• About 0.002% reported missing or stolen

Roughly 1,240 packages lost or stolen annually.

Alternate carriers

Smaller carriers see much lower package volumes, so their percentage of losses is higher but the total number remains low:

• DHL – less than 0.01% lost or stolen
• OnTrac – 0.02% lost or stolen

Private drop boxes have slightly higher loss rates around 0.1% since they are not held to the same security standards as major carriers.

All said, out of the 700+ million packages traversing drop boxes annually, around 0.01% are reported missing or stolen – an impressively low percentage considering the sheer volume.

Examples of drop box thefts and security breaches

Despite their overall security, there have been some notable instances of drop box thefts and security issues over the years:

College campus mail theft ring – 2018

In Massachusetts, three college students were arrested for stealing packages, mail, and checks from campus mailrooms and drop boxes over two years. They confessed to stealing over $400,000 worth of items.

New Jersey man charged with stealing mail – 2020

A man was arrested after being caught on camera prying open the drop box at a New Jersey post office to steal envelopes with cash and checks inside. Surveillance footage led to an easy arrest.

Drop box keys copied for theft – 2021

In Atlanta, a postal worker and accomplices stole over 6,000 pieces of mail from USPS drop boxes over several months. The worker copied drop box keys to access the contents illegally.

Drop box tampering incidents – 2022

Across the U.S., an increase in smashed windows, pried openings, and damaged drop boxes suggests thieves are trying to access and remove contents. Postal inspectors are actively investigating.

Vulnerabilities in outdated drop boxes – Present

Some older drop boxes lack updated security features and are vulnerable to attacks using fishing rods, magnets, or glue traps to remove contents. Carriers are working to modernize and upgrade vulnerable boxes.

While rare, targeted drop box thefts do occur occasionally. Vigilance from carriers and customers along with law enforcement investigations ensure those responsible are caught and held accountable.

Are rural drop boxes or apartments riskier?

There are some nuances in drop box security based on location that impact risks:

Rural drop boxes

• Located along rural postal routes away from post office hubs
• Emptied less frequently – 1-2 times weekly
• Lower package volumes and less foot traffic
• Greater opportunity for undetected access and theft

While rural drop boxes carry slightly more risk, USPS reports only marginal differences in loss rates between urban and rural boxes. Their sturdy construction and tamper-proofing minimizes weaknesses.

Apartment drop boxes

• Positioned for resident convenience in apartment lobbies
• Emptied daily by apartment staff, not postal workers
• More susceptible to opportunistic resident theft
• Lack standardized security of postal carrier boxes

Apartment drop boxes have the highest theft rates due to inconsistent security and access by many different residents. Using carrier boxes instead is recommended for apartment dwellers when possible.

Ultimately the design, placement, and maintenance of any drop box impacts its security. Careful consideration is needed to maximize safety while providing convenient access.

Are drop boxes safe during holidays?

Package volumes surge during peak holiday shipping seasons like Christmas, causing some customers to wonder if drop boxes are more vulnerable to theft during this hectic time. Here are the key factors:

Increased volume

More packages flowing through drop boxes means more opportunities for potential theft. However, greater package density also means any stolen parcels will be noticed sooner when inventories are reconciled.

Extra pickups

Carriers increase drop box pickup schedules before and during holidays to clear out the influx of packages more quickly. This reduces the window packages sit inside facilities.

Additional security

Surveillance, security sweeps, and staffing increase at post offices during peak seasons to handle the load and mitigate risks.

Busier foot traffic

Higher customer volume depositing packages provides natural surveillance and deters opportunistic theft around drop boxes.

While theoretical risks increase simply due to enormous volume, proactive measures by shippers and additional diligence by customers during holidays keeps drop boxes highly secure. Maintaining best practices like avoiding low light conditions provides ample safety.

How could drop box security be improved?

Despite their generally strong security, occasional vulnerabilities are exposed as thieves adapt their techniques and seek new ways to breach drop boxes. Ongoing improvements to security include:

Enhanced construction

Upgrading to thicker, pry-resistant metals and composites on new drop boxes improves brute force resistance. Slots sized to snugly fit modern parcel dimensions deter fishing.

More surveillance

Expanded video monitoring provides complete coverage of the box itself plus the surrounding area to better identify suspicious activity. High-resolution footage aids police investigation and prosecution.

Customized access

Keypad, pin, or QR code entry for locked storage compartments below the drop slot could enhance security in higher risk areas. Customized access controls parcel retrieval to authorized carriers.

Real-time notifications

Sensors that alert postal inspectors or staff when a drop box is approached after hours, tampered with or damaged immediately signal potential theft attempts.

GPS tracking

Fitting drop boxes with interior GPS devices allows stolen boxes to be tracked and recovered before contents are removed. Exterior devices can also help monitor movement and usage patterns.

While budget, infrastructure, and feasibility challenges exist, carriers are committed to evolving drop box designs for greater protection against emerging criminal tactics.

How can customers help prevent drop box theft?

Customers have an important role to play in minimizing drop box theft through situational awareness and deterrence, such as:

Choosing well-lit, busy locations

Opt for drop boxes in open, high traffic areas instead of obscure spots. Being around others helps deter thieves.

Avoiding low light conditions

Only deposit packages during daytime hours. Darkness makes theft much easier.

Reporting suspicious activity

Alert staff or call police if you witness anyone tampering with drop boxes or lingering suspiciously nearby.

Not overstuffing slots

Boxes jammed into undersized slots can get stuck, allowing more opportunity for theft.

Placing packages deep inside

Push your parcel fully into the drop box compartment so it can’t be fished or retrieved with magnets.

Handling issues promptly

If tracking shows a package missing from a drop box, immediately alert the carrier to investigate.

Combining public vigilance with the carrier’s security measures will help maintain drop boxes as a safe shipping method for all.

Conclusion

Package drop boxes remain one of the most secure ways to return and send prepaid parcels without directly visiting a post office or shipper. While very rare isolated incidents or vulnerabilities may occur, overall theft rates are extremely low thanks to sturdy construction, close monitoring, routine collection protocols, and ongoing security improvements by major carriers. Following some simple best practices and situational awareness goes a long way towards ensuring your packages make it safely from drop box to destination. As long as customers and carriers continue working together to enhance protective measures, drop boxes will remain a convenient, reliable, and safe shipping option.