Are Stolen Holiday Packages Covered?
With online shopping at its peak during the holiday season, porch thefts—often called “porch pirating”—are more common than ever. Fortunately, most homeowners and renters insurance policies offer protection for stolen packages, but the coverage works in specific ways. Understanding how these policies respond can help you recover losses quickly and avoid surprises during the claims process.
How Homeowners and Renters Insurance Covers Stolen Packages
Both homeowners' and renters' insurance include personal property coverage, which protects your belongings from covered perils like theft. This protection extends to packages stolen from your:
- Porch
- Doorstep
- Mailbox
- Apartment lobby
- Front yard
Whether you live in a house or a rental unit, if a package is delivered and then stolen, your policy typically treats it the same as any other personal property theft.
However, your deductible will apply. If the item's value is less than or close to your deductible, filing a claim may not be worthwhile.
Coverage Limits and High-Value Items
Insurance policies also have limits for specific categories of belongings. High-value items—such as electronics, designer goods, or jewelry—may only be partially covered under standard limits.
If the stolen package contained expensive items, your reimbursement may be capped unless you have:
- Scheduled personal property coverage
- An endorsement for high-value items
These add-ons ensure full coverage for luxury or high-cost gifts.
Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value
Your policy type affects your payout:
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV) pays the amount needed to replace the item at today’s prices.
- Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays the depreciated value, which is usually lower.
RCV policies offer better protection for newly purchased gifts.
When a Retailer or Carrier May Cover the Loss
Before filing an insurance claim, check with the retailer or shipping carrier. Many companies replace stolen packages as part of their customer service policies, which may save you from using your insurance at all.
Conclusion
Yes, homeowners' and renters' insurance generally covers stolen holiday packages under personal property protection. But deductibles, category limits, and policy type will influence your reimbursement. Knowing your coverage ahead of time ensures your holiday shopping stays protected—even if porch pirates strike.
