How can I protect my shipment against theft?
5min read
06/11/2020
As an
online shop owner, you have probably already experienced this: your shipment was stolen on the way! Unfortunately, some products are more susceptible to theft than others (see image below).The situation is such that you have to prepare a new shipment and have to deal with an unhappy customer.Could this mishap have been easily avoided? We dare to say yes! Protecting a package from theft is actually quite simple.There are 2 important factors: discretion and closure.Find out everything you need to know about it in this article.
The thieves’ three favourite packages
A US study1 found that around 36% of online shoppers have experienced a stolen order. 56% of those surveyed even knew someone who had. What makes a package so attractive to a thief? Shorr Packaging2 asked around 1000 consumers this question. Their answers are given below.3 Three factors in particular are examined in more detail: branded packaging, messages on the package (e.g. Fragile) and the format of the package.
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[1] Branded packaging branded packaging:branded packaging is packaging on which the brand name or colour is clearly visible, so you can guess from a distance what will be in the shipping box. Tempting enough for someone with bad intentions… The solution: opt for discreet packaging. The best way to deal with this situation is explained below.
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[2] Messages on the package: awarning message on a crate can be a good indication of what is inside. Large labels or prints with FRAGILE or BREEKBAAR (in Dutch) can indicate that your package contains a fragile (and expensive) product. Like electronics or crystal for example. A more subtle statement of this type can often be sufficient.
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[3] Packaging format the solution:e-commerce orders are still too often sent in crates that are far too large. For a parcel thief, the larger the package, the better the chances of getting a good haul. Larger crates are also easier to recognise from a distance. The solution is obvious: opt for smaller packaging by adapting your packaging to your product. The easiest way to create a compact package is to place it in a crate with variable height or in envelopes and plastic sleeves
How to avoid theft of e-commerce packages?
Eliminating the risk of theft completely is almost impossible.But there are a number of steps you can take in discouraging package thieves.For example, choose discreet packaging, preferably with a suitable closure.The level of protection depends of course on the value of your product.The more expensive and exclusive your product is, the more care you will need to take to have “theft-proof” packaging.
►discreet packaging
[Discreet” means that the packaging is neutral (brown or white) and completely opaque. There is no mention of a brand name or its colours. Only a fortune teller would be able to guess what’s inside! It could be a simple brown box, an opaque pouch or black packaging film (with which you can hide the contents of a pallet). Discreet packaging is particularly useful if
- The order is a gift or a surprise. The recipient may not know which online shop the gift was purchased from;
- The package cannot be delivered by hand;
- The package cannot be delivered to the home, but to a collection point or workstation.
for example, depending on the product you are selling (medicines, jewellery, electronics), it is in your best interest to offer discreet shipping options. However, this does not mean you have to keep theinside of your package discreet. You can opt for a print or a personal message on a card. This way, you can still make the unpacking experience unique.
► Packaging with suitable closure
[Onceyour parcel has been sent, it is important to have suitable anti-theft locks to discourage those who might be tempted. You can choose from the following solutions
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High security tapethe tape leaves a message on the box when you remove it, such as the word “opened”. The tape is very difficult to replace after it has been opened, so that theft attempts never go unnoticed.
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Gummed tapegummed tape: After application, the tape penetrates deep into the carton of your box and forms a whole with the carton. If you want to remove the tape, you will inevitably damage the carton. It is one of the strongest closures available. To find out more about the advantages of gummed tape, click here.
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Security seal gummed tape: used to close crates, shuttle bins, truck doors, etc.
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High security sealsuitable for container doors. Can only be removed with bolt cutters.
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Box with reinforced closurethis type of box is equipped with tabs or closing tabs to keep the box better closed.
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Tear-proof pouch su_spacer]: After closing, your products are securely packed and protected against water and dirt.
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Cross case su_spacer]: the large flaps folded over each other make it more difficult to open the box and access the contents
