Somerset has seen more than 1,300 parcel thefts since 2021 – but just 13 of those cases have resulted in charges, new figures reveal.

Freedom of Information data shows there were 1,319 reports of "theft of a mail bag or postal packet" across Somerset between January 2021 and August 2025. The number of monthly incidents fluctuates sharply, from just one in September 2024 to 71 in December 2021.

Despite the steady stream of reports, the vast majority end with no suspect identified. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed 1,180 cases were closed with a Type 18 outcome – meaning the investigation was dropped due to no suspect being found. Just 13 cases led to a charge or summons.

A force spokesperson said: "Parcel thefts are often difficult to investigate because they usually take place on private property, with limited CCTV and no witnesses. We always encourage people to use secure delivery options wherever possible and to report incidents to us so we can spot patterns and target problem areas."

The figures mirror national trends. New research from Quadient shows a record £666.5 million worth of parcels were stolen across the UK in the 12 months to mid-2025 – up nearly £290 million year-on-year.

An estimated 4.83 million households lost at least one parcel, a 31 per cent increase, but only one in every 353 thefts was reported to police.

December remains the peak month for thefts, followed by November due to Black Friday deliveries. The average value of stolen parcels has risen from £102 to £138 in a year.

Quadient director Katia Bourgeais-Crémel said: "Parcel theft has risen dramatically in the past year, and with the busiest delivery season approaching, the message from consumers is clear: they don't want packages left on their doorsteps anymore."

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The report found nearly two-thirds of the public now prefer using parcel lockers or collection points. Most said they would rather miss a delivery than risk theft, and nearly eight in ten believe authorities should treat the issue more seriously.

Across the UK, regional differences are stark – but the trend is clear. Leicestershire, Hertfordshire and Kent recorded the most reports; the City of London and Cheshire the fewest.

In Somerset, thefts surge during the winter shopping period and drop over the summer. In many months, not a single case led to a suspect being identified.

Police say the safest delivery options remain secure lockers, trusted neighbours, designated collection points and clear instructions. They also urge residents to report every theft to help map problem areas.

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