Protecting Your Packages During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and... unfortunately, a peak time for package theft and shipping mishaps. At U-PIC, we understand the stress this can add to an otherwise festive season. Whether you're a small business owner or an individual sending gifts to loved ones, by following the right steps, you can minimize the risk of loss, damage, or theft this holiday season.
Why the Holidays are Prime Time for Package Theft
During the holiday season, shipping volumes skyrocket. This means more packages left unattended on doorsteps for extended periods, creating an opportunity for "porch pirates." Add in the increased strain on carriers, and the chances of packages being mishandled or lost in transit rise.
Let’s break down how you can keep your shipments safe and avoid headaches.
How to Prepare & Protect Your Holiday Packages
- Package Carefully
Proper packaging is your first line of defense against both damage and theft.
- Use new, sturdy boxes to prevent tears or crushing.
- Cushion fragile items generously with bubble wrap or foam.
- Double-box valuable items for extra protection.
- Avoid descriptive labels—don’t advertise the contents of the package on the outside.
- Use Insured Shipping
If you’re shipping high-value or irreplaceable items, insure your packages with U-PIC to protect against damage, loss, or theft during transit. We offer comprehensive coverage so you can relax, knowing that if something goes wrong, we’ve got you covered.
- Track Shipments and Request Signature Delivery
Opt for tracking numbers and, whenever possible, require a signature upon delivery. This reduces the likelihood of packages being left unattended on your doorstep. Carriers like UPS and FedEx offer signature-required delivery options for added security.
- Ship Early
The earlier, the better! Ship in advance to avoid the holiday rush, when mishandling and theft tend to spike. Waiting until the last minute increases the chances of delays or lost packages.
- Pick Safe Delivery Locations
Whenever possible, have your packages delivered to a secure location—your workplace, a trusted neighbor’s home, or even a local shipping locker. This prevents packages from sitting in plain sight, inviting theft.
For more on how to prepare and package your shipments properly, check out our packaging guidelines page.
U-PIC's Holiday Claims Process
As you can imagine, with the holiday season’s surge in shipping volume comes an increase in claims. Rest assured, our team works overtime during this busy period to ensure all claims are processed swiftly and in full accordance with our policy. Our goal is to make sure the holidays remain happy for everyone, even when things don’t go as planned.
- Waiting Periods for Lost Packages: Before filing a claim for a lost package, U-PIC requires a waiting period of 21 days from the ship date for domestic shipments and 45 days for international shipments (60 days for Italy). This allows carriers time to locate delayed packages. Please note, waiting periods may vary based on your specific agreement with U-PIC.
- File Damage Claims Immediately: There’s no need to wait for damage claims. If your package arrives damaged, you can file a claim with U-PIC right away.
To help speed up the claims process:
- Keep All Documentation: Always keep a copy of the invoice, shipping receipts, and other documentation handy.
- Photograph the Damage: Request clear photos of the damaged package and its contents for faster review.
Common Holiday Shipping Questions
- Can I file a claim if my package arrives damaged?
Absolutely. U-PIC covers damage to packages during transit. Make sure to request photos of the damage and packaging materials to speed up the claims process.
- Does U-PIC cover lost packages?
Yes, if your package is lost during transit, it’s fully covered. Just remember to wait 21 days for domestic shipments and 45 days for international (60 days for Italy) before filing your claim. Please note, waiting periods may vary based on your specific agreement with U-PIC.
- What happens if my package is stolen after it’s delivered?
Unfortunately, theft after delivery isn’t covered under U-PIC’s policy—it’s an issue for local law enforcement. To avoid this, request delivery instructions such as leaving the package in a concealed area or requiring it to be handed off to the recipient directly.
Final Thoughts
This holiday season, don’t let shipping concerns spoil the fun. By following these tips and insuring your shipments with U-PIC, you can protect your packages and your peace of mind. We’re here to handle any claims that come up so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday season.
