Tis the season for packages to go missing.

Law enforcement and major shipping companies said now is the time to keep an extra close eye on your front door if you are expecting a delivery.

Thefts of delivered packages goes up at this time of year and law enforcement said it is simply a crime of opportunity.

But there are ways to keep the crooks at bay.

If you can't be at home, FedEx, UPS and other major shippers recommend the following: Request that your package be signed for and not just dropped off. Also, work with the shipper to find if deliveries can be made when you will be at home. And there's more.

"If your employer will allow it, have your package delivered there,” said Jane Watrel from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. “That way you know someone will be there. Or, if you have a relative that is usually home, have it delivered there."

Many Internet shippers allow you to track purchases so you know what time they will be delivered.

FedEx has offered more tips below.

  • Customize your deliveries. Use FedEx Delivery Manager® to customize your residential deliveries. You can change the time and location of delivery, request a signature upon delivery and even ask FedEx to hold your package if you know you’ll be out of the house when we try to deliver. Sign up for free at fedex.com/delivery.
  • Consider an alternate destination. When you order something online, consider sending the package to your workplace or to a family member, friend or neighbor who is home during the day to accept delivery.
  • Send it to your nearest FedEx Office location. You can have your deliveries sent to the nearest FedEx Office location and we’ll hold it for you for up to five business days. FedEx provides this service at no added cost. If it’s a FedEx Express® package, you can also have your package sent to one of our FedEx Express stations. Find the location nearest you at fedex.com/locate.
  • Request a signature. Many packages today are sent without requiring a signature for delivery. If you’re shipping something of high value — or you just want to be sure items aren’t left unattended — you can require a signature for packages to be released. Either the shipper or the recipient can make this request.
  • Request a vacation hold. Taking a holiday trip to visit family or friends? You can request a vacation hold on all shipments for up to 14 days.
  • Redirect your packages even when they’re already on the way. With FedEx Delivery Manager, you’ll be alerted to every FedEx® package headed to your home, even if you don’t have the tracking number. If you know you won’t be home and want to send the delivery somewhere else, just redirect it to where you’ll be, or another secure location.
  • Ask for a ring. Use FedEx Delivery Manager to let your driver know you want a ring—or a knock. You can leave instructions for drivers to always ring your doorbell or knock on your door when a package is being left. Do you like your packages left behind the big planter, or tucked behind the grill beside the back door? Use FedEx Delivery Manager to leave one-time-only or standing instructions for where you want FedEx to leave your deliveries. You can also let your driver know your instructions by calling 1.800.GoFedEx (1.800.463.3339).