With the ever-increasing volume of online shopping and package deliveries, mailbox security is more important than ever. Porch piracy, the theft of packages left on doorsteps, has become a growing concern. According to a 2023 study by C+R Research, 49% of Americans reported having at least one package stolen in the past year. This not only leads to financial loss but also frustration and inconvenience.
Salsbury Industries, a leading manufacturer of mailboxes since 1936, offers a wide range of secure and stylish solutions for both residential and commercial properties. This blog post will serve as your guide to choosing the perfect Salsbury mailbox for your needs in 2024.
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The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated the shift towards online shopping. According to eMarketer: https://www.emarketer.com/, global e-commerce sales reached a staggering $5.8 trillion in 2023, and this trend is projected to continue. This surge in online deliveries has placed a strain on traditional mailboxes, often overflowing with packages that don't fit.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has also acknowledged this shift. In July 2020, they implemented a new mailbox standard (USPS STD-4C) requiring a specific ratio of mail compartments to parcel lockers in new centralized mail delivery units.
1. 2023 Package Theft Statistics:
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Over $8 billion in stolen merchandise in 2023. With the continued rise of e-commerce, this number is likely to increase in 2024, potentially reaching $10 billion according to industry estimates.
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Around 17% of Americans reported a stolen package in the past three months (Security.org, 2023). This translates to roughly 44 million victims
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Nearly 71% of stolen packages are valued at over $100
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Over half (55.5%) of stolen packages were delivered by Amazon and Other targeted carriers include FedEx (25.4%), USPS (23.5%), and UPS (22.6%)
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The average American receives 3.5 packages weekly, creating ample opportunities for theft.
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17% of adults (44 million people) reported stolen packages in the past three months of 2023.
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Around 88% of adults expressed concern about package theft during the holidays in 2023.
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Fewer than one in seven package thefts are reported to the police [Source: Security.org, 2023 Package Theft Annual Report].
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Thefts are expected to rise significantly around holidays with increased online shopping (e.g., Black Friday, Cyber Monday). Capital One Shopping estimates a 40% increase following Amazon Prime Day.
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18% of online shoppers take no precautions to secure deliveries, leaving packages vulnerable.
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18% of adults reported a stolen package containing a gift in 2023.
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The typical stolen package was worth around $50 in 2023. Inflation might push this to around $55 in 2024.
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Targeting weekdays remains common, as most people are out at work.
Methods of Theft:
Porch pirates: These individuals steal packages left unattended on doorsteps.
Mail fishing: Criminals use tools to steal mail directly from mailboxes.
Key bumping: This technique allows unauthorized access to locked mailboxes.
Factors Contributing to Theft:
Increased online shopping: With more packages being delivered, there are more opportunities for theft.
Lack of secure mailbox placement: Unattended packages on doorsteps become easy targets.
Weak mailbox security: Traditional mailboxes might not be robust enough to deter theft.
| Strategies to Prevent Package Theft | Percentage of Respondents |
|---|---|
| Schedule shipments for when you are home | 38% |
| Install a doorbell camera | 30% |
| Shop in-store or online with in-store pickup | 24% |
| Install external lights or signs | 17% |
| Have neighbors bring packages inside when you’re not home | 17% |
| Ship packages somewhere besides the home (e.g., workplace, access point) | 15% |
| Install a security system | 15% |
| Have packages delivered to someone else | 9% |
| Leave work during lunch/breaks to bring deliveries inside | 6% |
| Use a service that delivers inside the home such as Amazon Key | 2% |
| Nothing | 18% |
2. Mailbox Types for Every Situation
Salsbury caters to a diverse clientele, offering solutions for both residential and commercial settings.
Residential Mailboxes:
Curbside Mailboxes: Ideal for single-family homes, these mailboxes are mounted directly on a post at the curb, offering convenient mail retrieval without leaving your property. Salsbury's curbside mailbox collection boasts a wide range of styles, from classic post-mounted designs to modern, high-capacity options.
Wall-Mounted Mailboxes: Perfect for residences with limited space, these mailboxes are securely mounted directly onto your exterior wall. Salsbury offers a variety of wall-mounted options, including horizontal and vertical designs, to match your aesthetic preferences.
Vertical Mailboxs with USPS Access:
3506SSU Surface Mounted Vertical Mailbox with USPS Access and 6 Doors
3506ASU Surface Mounted Vertical Mailbox with 6 Doors and USPS Access
6 Doors - Bronze - Surface Mounted - USPS Access (3506ZSU)
3505ASP (Includes Master Commercial Lock) - 5 Doors - Aluminum
Cluster Mailboxes (CMBs): Often found in apartment complexes or communities with multiple units, CMBs provide a centralized location for residents to receive mail securely. Salsbury offers USPS-approved CMBs that comply with the latest postal regulations, ensuring seamless mail delivery.
Best Cluster Box Units:
16-A Size Doors, Type III, USPS Lock Compatible
16 Doors and 2 Parcel Lockers (3316WHT-U) in White with USPS Access – Type III
16 A Size Doors, USPS Type III Cluster Box Unit
Commercial Mailboxes (CMBs):
Centralized Box Unit (CBU): Designed for apartment buildings, office complexes, and other multi-tenant facilities, CBUs provide a secure and organized system for mail delivery. Salsbury's CBUs are available in various configurations to accommodate the specific needs of your property. Importantly, in 2 Salsbury offers USPS-compliant CBU models that meet the requirements outlined in USPS Postal Bulletin 22394, ensuring smooth mail delivery for your tenants.
Package Lockers: With the rise of online shopping, package security becomes paramount. Salsbury's innovative line of parcel lockers provides a secure space for couriers to leave deliveries. These lockers are typically integrated with CBUs or installed independently.
3.Security and Durability
Built with high-quality, weather-resistant materials like galvanized steel or aluminum. This ensures they can withstand harsh weather conditions and resist tampering attempts.
Salsbury mailboxes utilize robust locking mechanisms, including key locks and combination locks, to safeguard your mail and packages. Many models also incorporate features like latch shield and pick-resistant locks for enhanced security.
For commercial applications, Salsbury offers USPS-approved mailboxes that adhere to the latest postal regulations. This guarantees seamless mail delivery and avoids any potential delays or disruptions.
4.Functionality and Style
Salsbury understands that mailboxes are not just about security; they also contribute to your property's curb appeal.
Many Salsbury mailboxes features, such as outgoing mail slots, large capacity compartments to accommodate oversized packages, and integrated newspaper holders. and offers a wide range of mailbox styles to complement your property's architecture. From classic designs to modern, sleek options.
5.Choosing the Right Mailbox for You
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Will the mailbox be installed at the curb, mounted on a wall, or integrated into a centralized system?
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How many people will be using the mailbox? Consider the number of residents or tenants when selecting a mailbox with sufficient capacity.
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Evaluate the level of security required for your mail and packages.
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If you anticipate a high volume of package deliveries, consider mailbox options with integrated parcel lockers or larger compartments.
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Salsbury mailboxes cater to a range of budgets. Determine your spending limit and choose a mailbox that offers the features and security you need within your price range.
6.The Importance of Mailbox Maintenance
Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your mailbox periodically with a damp cloth and mild soap solution to remove dirt and debris.
Lock Maintenance: Lubricate the lock mechanism periodically with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
Hardware Checks: Tighten any loose screws or bolts on your mailbox or post stand to maintain stability.
Address any minor damage promptly to prevent further deterioration. For significant damage, consider contacting a qualified professional for repairs or replacements.
With the ever-increasing reliance on e-commerce and package deliveries, a dependable mailbox is crucial for safeguarding your mail and valuables. Salsbury Industries stands out as a leader in the mailbox industry, offering a comprehensive selection of secure, durable, and stylish mailboxes for both residential and commercial applications.
References:
https://www.security.org/package-theft/annual-report/
https://www.crresearch.com/blog/2022-package-theft-statistics-report/