'On The Fly...DIY' Porch Pirate Proof Mailbox

We use online shopping for almost EVERYTHING but porch pirates are putting a damper on this convenience. Even if you have a security system and catch the heinous act on camera, you more than likely never recover your package and have to file police reports, reorder the item, and wait for a replacement. Don't give thieves a chance with a Porch Pirate Proof Mailbox.
This episode of On The Fly…DIY is sponsored in part by Rust-Oleum.
Affiliate links (proceeds go to no-kill animal shelters and rescue organizations:
* A miter saw - amzn.to/2YoVkq5
* Safety glasses - amzn.to/2YlBego
* A drill, bits for drilling pilot holes and screws - amzn.to/2LDGOJq
* Pencil - amzn.to/2PWhrBa
* Rust-Oleum spray paint - amzn.to/2LAuCJB
* Drop cloth - amzn.to/2LPx5A7
* 34 - 3 inch screws - amzn.to/2VrqLmF
* 16 - 1 and a half inch screws - amzn.to/2E2Y6tn
* 72 - 1 and a quarter inch screws - amzn.to/2VsIMRC
* Two 8 inch T hinges - amzn.to/2LDIlPG
* 8 - three-quarter-inch screws - amzn.to/2Yp1Aye
* Two 3 ½ inch hinges - amzn.to/2Yge4YG
* Two small 1 inch hinges - amzn.to/2PXwNW2
* One handle - amzn.to/2VvOeCY
* Four cabinet lid support hinges - amzn.to/30ahyxH
* RFID lock and fob set - amzn.to/30ffHYH
* Plywood - amzn.to/2Lxm1aj

[@randomneko9]

Good luck getting the delivery guy to use it. It's a miracle if my packages are not drop kicked to my door.

[@gizzyguzzi]

did you try putting a clear label on the box? A flag?

[@twizzonemofficial8582]

People are just jealous that someone else came up with something so creative and productive. Maybe instead of being narrow-minded you could fix your own problem.

[@krenx]

Good luck doing NOTHING and continue letting your packaged get stolen

[@tyreewarner7563]

😂😂

[@utubestalker.dotcom]

Just rent a Private Mail Box located at a mailing store near you. That way someone can be there to sign for packages. Some allow mailbox access 24/7.

[@AsianKpopGurlz]

34 - 3inch screws 16 - 1.5inch screws 72 - 1.25inch screws 2 - 8inch gate/T hinges 8 - 0.25inch screws 8 - washers 2 - 3.5inch hinges 2 - 1/2inch hinges 1 - Gate Handle 4 - Cabinet lid support hinges 2 - small machine screws, with 2 small nuts 1 - FRD lock set 1 - Plywood cut 21"X 22.25" 4 - 40inch long 2x2 8 - 21.5inch long 2x2 6 - 24inch long 1x4 4 - 25.25inch long 1x4 4 - 26inch long 1x4 28 - 36inch long 1x4 2 - 28 1/8inch long 1x4 8 - 27.75inch long 1x4 1 - 21.5 inch long cut in half (1 5/8 thick/wide and other 1 3/8inch thick/wide) -Build frame with the 2x2s, 4 inches from the bottom, 3 inch screws to keep each piece together -24inch long 1x4 make floor, using 1.5 inch screws, "ripped" pieces will fit along the sides build 2 of the sides -lay out 2 of the 26inch 1x4s, then place 7 of the 36inch 1x4s, lay out so that there is the same amount of "extra" on each side, use 1.25inch screws to secure each piece Build last 2 sides -lay out 2 of the 25.25inch 1x4s, then place 7 of the 36inch 1x4s, layout so there is NO extra hanging, use 1.25inch screws to secure each piece Line up the frame and the sides, secure by using 3 - 3inch screws on top and bottom "Extra" will be places on the right and the back of the frame "No Extra/Flush" will be placed on the left side to open the door on right Build top -lay out 2 of the 28 1/8inch 1x4s, place 8 of the 27.75inch 1x4s, secure in place with 1.25 inch screws Paint all the pieces Place the last side piece, lining up with the "No Extra/Flush" side to the same "No Extra/Flush" on the box Place the T hinges with the knuckle inside Place the top on, flush with the front but equal spacing on the sides, then add hinges Add Handle to the top front Cabinet hinges create a small hole on each end, using 2 pieces add screw and nut to create 2 long hinges altogether Plywood attach the 2 - 1inch hinges to the 21inch side flip over and attach the 2 long hinges about 3 inches in screw the plywood hinges from the underside of the frame Screw long hinges to the top of the box Cut plywood smaller if needed to fit "larger packages" or make box taller **Pretty much? whats going on in the video**

[@gizzyguzzi]

The key to the build success was tight jeans and high heels!

[@Bremend]

I was gonna ask about that, wouldn't you be afraid of getting paint on those shoes? I'd wear beat up shoes, knowing I'd most likely get paint on them somehow...

[@debbiefulton1001]

I was wondering the same thing. Not only that,but her long flowy hair was loose,while she was spray painting!

[@NikiLivi5]

She’s just proving she can do it all!

[@cristaladame5608]

😂😂😂 she had to sell it

[@kpkp42]

I was thinking you just put any angry bobcat in the box and called it "done"

[@crestonsimpson1370]

nice design, only thing I can see is if you get a big package then that would not allow the inside to come back up to secure the packages.

[@IraQNid]

Internal sensors can be used to determine how full the compartment is. Also different sized drop boxes can be used to accommodate larger items. Take for example water level sensors that can be wired to trigger alarms, flashing lights for the deaf, "rumblers" for the visually impaired, or other external warning methods once liquids exceed a certain height. These are often set at the desired height at installation so that when liquids finally do reach that level the appropriately wired responses are issued by the sensor. Just a matter of finding the right sensors to do this task.

[@EastwoodFabrication]

Finished making mine, with alterations though. If I were to make this again, I certainly wouldnt use the same kind of wood. I would use plywood then maybe strips of wood for decor and strength. Would be more cost friendly as well. This is actually more complicated than it should be... Dont let the high heels fool ya ;)

[@theblueeyedweirdo]

Cool idea and a wonderful presentation, especially the voice-over. Thank you!

[@DNAConsultingDetectives]

Cute, but needs some improvement. Bolting it to a porch or house would be more sensible. Also, the exterior hinges on bottom door are cute, but easily removed by a thief.

[@theoriginalswan]

The average thier wouldn't bother.

[@pashon4percushon]

@@theoriginalswan I was thinking what would they do but I think when they have to do more, and they can't see the packages they won't bother because they don't know what they're sticking their hands into. Everybody has alternate ideas, but just a box alone would be a deterrent.

[@utubestalker.dotcom]

Easier to line the bottom with cement pavers

[@bjulianaleo3025]

Love this presentation...and how exacting you are in explaining! I built a small walkway deck in my garden (NOT IN HEELS, of course)... but to do something a man would do, was a real Ego boost for me. Okay, so it took alot longer than most projects, but I did it with the help of a Chop Saw, and my imagination. I did not have written plans. I just saw a photo, and did what I thought would work. For the end result, it turned out pretty good. I only ran out of wood once! HAHAHA But consider I had to load the wood into a Scion XB... I was determined to make it work. Yeah me! Juliana

[@UnfrozenCavemanTrader]

This isn't foolproof, but it doesn't have to be. It just needs too be good enough to make a thief move on to easier targets. Unless a thief saw someone drop a package in it, they wouldn't even know if there were packages in it or not. The longer they're on the porch trying to figure that out, the more at risk they are. It tips the risk/reward balance just enough to the package owners favor to make it worth it.

[@megasuperawesomestuf]

Great video! The blue heels were a little over the top though 😆😉

[@megala6159]

Good job

[@michaelwooda9444]

Very good idea! Love the heels also!

[@graceproby2662]

Fabulous idea. Definitely going to have a go.

[@LPSTEENSCREAM1000]

I need one of these. I live in the country and no one likes to drive down my dirt road to my house so I plan on building one of these by my mailbox. We don’t have package thieves thankfully!

[@reginabroughton5917]

I live in Illinois outside of Chicago and this was a great idea, I have a town home style property and I am in close proximity of my neighbors. Witnessing my neighbors taking parcels off porches including mine I went with this idea, but funny" my postal carriers nor Amazon not even UPS will acknowledge the thing even with signs...and I have left delivery instructions upon orders.. I'm at wits end.

[@es-qf2gw]

The biggest problem is this is made out wood, u would need to make it out of metal if you live in an up and coming exciting Neiborhood, (bad neiborhood is offensive these days)

[@NikiLivi5]

Maybe try putting a basket with some bottled waters and a few snacks like peanut butter and crackers and snack size bags of chips with a sign that says Thank you for helping me keep my packages safe. That might give them more of an incentive to put them in there.

[@nickj6275]

Made one of these for my business and the pirates cut the arms off and lifted the middle board out and stole my packages.

[@tdperkinsgmail]

Hmmm, sounds like a lie

[@brendak.8650]

I was thinking that could happen….

[@jamesbrown99991]

So glad you managed to track down the thief

[@randinagerbereux2608]

What a great idea.

[@thefancystache3793]

Soothing professional voice and fun ideas. Keep it up. I was shocked having watched this and it wasn't one of those vids that's been viewed millions of times. Maybe you could market your channel by posting your stuff in different Reddit subs? Also very kind of you and doggo to take that hooligan porch pirate off the streets and give him a home.

[@485chase]

Soothing voice? It was a text to speach program wasn't it?

[@b3arwithm3]

Yeah computer voice

[@rihe1526]

Nice clothing work gear.

[@ChadFranzen]

Honestly, anyone can get into that box with minimal effort. Just push/pull the top a little too high...it won't take much force to pull the screws either out of the top, or the security panel, and then you have access to the entire box. It would be better if it was disguised as a hose/gardening tool container. If you already have a problem with "porch pirates", putting a sign on the front that says "Packages" is just inviting them to break into it. Good idea, but the implementation isn't the best. Needs to be fortified quite a bit before it'll really be useful for most people. And some more thought should be put into the weather proofing aspect as well.

[@DarienCaldwell]

a couple dropkicks would destroy it also. or hell, they could just pick up the whole box and put it in their truck.

[@mikelewis1166]

A sketchy guy once told me, locks are to keep honest people from stealing. Nothing stops a thief.

[@ChadFranzen]

@@mikelewis1166 while I don't disagree with the thief part of ur comment, there is a limit where most opportunity thieves will think that it's not worth the effort. I don't believe that this box is difficult enough to defeat to make it "not worth it" to the average opportunity thief. oh, and honest people don't need a lock in order to not steal. ;-)

[@ChadFranzen]

@@DarienCaldwell ur just being obtuse.

[@matt8863]

@@ChadFranzen Lol... Warden Norton would be very angry.

[@KatiStage]

Thanks for the simple idea but not practical for bigger oblong pagages.

[@coldheartz2686]

Me: lifts the entire box and take it with me You should anchor it

[@amandabarnes424]

Nice idea...however, not sure if all delivery personnel would use it tho... most here like to take pics of item left at your door to show they delivered it.

[@ifawoodchickcould874]

Fabulous! You should sell them!

[@ericcontreras1454]

*steals whole box*

[@Boost_Addict]

Eric Contreras That’s why you bolt it to the floor are you fucking idiot lmaoooo

[@bastiandoby]

Absolutely BRILLIANT!🙂

[@AlteredCarbons]

love the idea, and in an area where theft isn't an issue this will work well. but all it takes is a pair of snips to cut the cable to drop the drop box part and then you can just grab the box / package

[@KstewLover1]

You could use wires or chains. Easily fixable.

[@ballzmckgee3167]

They would just go to the next house where they don't have to do any of that..

[@MakerCuisine]

Very cool video, I really like the design

[@robinaenos9930]

Are the blue high heels important OSHA safety gear?

[@cognitivedissonance4413]

Couple of things. 1. If you have a large package, the inside plywood flap wouldn't open. 2. What if it rains, the lid isn't waterproof?

[@SparklingSilverCurls]

I was thinking the same thing. I'd be afraid packages would get hung up and wouldn't drop down. I'd make it more less deep, but the same height, so the drop down flap doesn't go all the way to the bottom of the box, to allow for larger packages to drop down, and to prevent them from getting hung up on the flap.

[@jaredslizofski5146]

They'll just leave the package on top of the box.

[@jaystanley2827]

Use a 4x8 sheet of hardie board n skip all those individual boards

[@shamefulidentity]

Why are they spray painting in high heels?

[@XavierAncarno]

I like that

[@MrMoses28]

@@XavierAncarno it's marketing, they know most men are going to watch this video and say, If she can do it I can.

[@vidalvar]

Because she can

[@3rdPrivateAccount]

why ever not?

[@samanthapaisley6436]

Great. Woodworking kn high heels 👠 hmmm

[@qteeharvey8320]

Who was wears heels 👠 to do a project. I'm sorry but she did build this. Fake News

[@garrettp6942]

She's wearing heels for a diy project🤦‍♀️

[@bernnoseworthy8531]

do you have plans for purchase for this mailbox?

[@EliotHochberg]

Good ideas, but what happens if there is a big package or several packages? Would this design still work with cord, chain, or metal rope? That way, if there are a lot of packages or a large package, the top won't be held open when it's full. Might then also want some kind of indicator for that state so that delivery folks and owner will know it's full. Like perhaps an LED that triggers when the inner flap in over a certain height? Another way to solve that would be to make the whole box shallower and wider, so that the inner flap isn't as deep. It would depend on how large the packages are.

[@stargazeronesixseven]

Genius! Great idea indeed! Should manufactured & sell them , sure many online shoppers would love to own them! Thank You So Much for the Great Tutorial! ♥️🌷🕯

[@Scoob609]

Couldn't imagine drilling items over a nice hardwood floor. I also couldn't imagine promoting safety glasses and then doing work in high heels..

[@bjulianaleo3025]

Well... you could always Try it in Heels...LOL

[@domipasta84]

Yeah, have to admit to losing bulk credibility when I saw that outfit.

[@Nawmps]

In less-than-desirable areas, I would imagine reinforcing the outer walls of the wooden box with thin sheet metal could further act as a deterrent. It doesn't have to actually be robust to deter the average thief, it just has to look robust!

[@AlteredCarbons]

seeing all they have to do is cut the cables... it would take like 5 seconds to get into this thing

[@Nawmps]

@@AlteredCarbons The idea is to be a deterrent, not to be indestructible. Anyone who wanted to could easily get into a locked house with a deadbolt, but it being there makes it all the more likely that any given thief would go on their way in search for an unlocked door. There are plenty of other houses that don't have any kind of lock box that a thief could spend their time on, why bother with it at all?

[@NikiLivi5]

You could also put a dummy camera mounted on the top to make them think they are being recorded. And if you really want to be funny you could attach a voice recording that is triggered when the lid is lifted that says something to the effect of, No! No! No! I see you! And so does my camera! And just in case you decide to damage that one I have another one hidden on the house just to be on the safe side. Get a job and make your family proud!

[@hientruong4074]

I ordered the materials to build the box, but the porch pirates stole it...

[@jenniferjones6825]

Really? I just cant help it...the heels are just plain damn unrealistic. Choose pants that fit next time vs huge heels. JS. Box is okay but i got wayy too distracted by the unrealistic on the 'fly' setting

[@KrystalZombieKiller]

No one cares that you’re distracted Jennifer. Get over yourself.

[@jeromestaab3455]

Would this work for babies?

[@BusinessButlers]

Watch out for malevolent kids putting the neighbour's cat in there since there is no lock on the lid. Breaking into this box would take about 10 seconds.

[@cghad23]

Tell the driverd free foid if your parcel is delivered safely

[@485chase]

Looks great but not secure or able to house medium to large packages due to the guard flap. Pretty but not practical

[@3rdPrivateAccount]

Make it bigger then

[@ricosrealm]

large packages are rarely left by carriers because they are expensive. they will just return another day to deliver it. otherwise make sure you are home or have it delivered elsewhere. this works for 90% of your everyday low cost deliveries.

[@joesephcantinelli9461]

Good idea but you gotta use a bit before you put those screws in. That's how you'll crack the planks

[@hockey1973]

Any suggestions on how to anchor it to a porch?

[@Donmar21]

If a cement porch you could drill and add an eyelet anchor you could chain and lock the box too. If a wood porch I would fill a good size planter with cement and then chain the box to the planter.

[@PIOJOZATANIKO]

"L" shape metal bracket from the bottom interior floor from each corner

[@p62325]

A bigger parcel than the dog bone would jam the mechanism. The box would need to be double the height also the hinge is far to flimsy to offer any security. The only theif this would slow down is a child.

[@Nawmps]

I think the idea is to act as a deterrent. There are far more houses that don't have lock boxrs that would be easier to steal from. The average porch pirate is looking for an easy grab-n-go, so unless they somehow know what's being delivered to you specifically, they probably would just leave it be.

[@debbiefulton1001]

Most porch pirates, go for, A: what they can see, and B: what's easily accessible!

[@IraQNid]

The video was well made with clear and easy instructions. The key part to this is the locking mechanism. I'm not at all likely to build something. But I am very likely to buy a weather tight plastic tool box meant for truck beds to add this sort of lock to. Especially handy if said plastic tool box has independent compartments. One fancy lock for each bin. Then secure it to my house so that thieves don't walk off with the entire container. The downside to this type of drop box are the items will stack up unevenly and prevent other items from being deposited eventually. It also lends to getting damaged goods by the gravity feed system that is employed. You could eliminate the complication of the guarded inner door by getting rid of it to just add separate locking bins in a manner similar to what I have already outlined. The material being used would be far easier to break into as the hinge pins are a breeze to tap out. No hinges means that fancy lock is just about useless. The hinges should be mounted from within so that their pins cannot be tampered with. Wood is not the strongest method of deterring a determined or even a casual thief. There are some suggesting the thieves are ill prepared both mechanically and intellectually. If that were the case then there wouldn't be theft. Talk it over with local law enforcement to see what they think of your design. They are in the know of what does or does not work.

[@EastwoodFabrication]

I love this idea, What is to stop the thieves from breaking the two hinges? Also, I would suggest using the theft proof screws for the barn hinges

[@jimthesoundman8641]

I agree. A $1 box cutter knife would make quick work of those two straps.

[@jimpeppyp4946]

JimTheSoundsfunny

[@anythinwithanengine6384]

JimTheSoundman use a metal chain instead of string?

[@jimthesoundman8641]

@@anythinwithanengine6384 Couldn't I then use a screwdriver or a small prybar to remove the chain? Just playing Devil's Advocate here. If package theft is that much of a problem, I'd just use the Amazon Locker down a the local store.

[@aksvan]

TIME will stop them.

[@MrNaise]

How much would this cost in supplies do y’all think ?

[@williamjohnson4636]

Is the rfid lock weather proof Or is it ok outside

[@jimpeppyp4946]

Hi Vicki. 👋 First Time Seeing Your Channel, And I Love How Well Your Presentation To the Project Was, Giving a List is a Great Idea ! Even though I Don’t Need That Much Help, Your Video Was Great 👍 And To Top it All off To Show People, You Did It In High Heels ! Nice Jim

[@noworriesmate5903]

Hey I know that kid!

[@DanKoning777]

1] the wood used should be treated lumber; at minimum the feet should be treated 2] when the lid is opened, the screws lifting the wood barrier can be easily unscrewed or dislodged with a solid jolt, or merely continue opening the lid past its intended point and exposing the packages 3] back up a truck and take the whole box

[@PIOJOZATANIKO]

Did you just watched Oceans 11 movie or what? You swear that team will come and take this box lmfao. You are such a fool. Like this is used to guard an ATM machine. You forgot to mention that a helicopter can also take her safety package box.

[@DanKoning777]

@@PIOJOZATANIKO I see you've been busy Piojo. Are you having fun trolling comments without really understanding what you're reading *(or writing for that matter)?* Btw, the answer to your poorly worded question; "Did you just *"watched"* Oceans 11 movie" is no. Why don't you try: "Did you just *'watch' an Ocean's 11 movie,* or what?" Now, instead of the foolishness that you've been doing, try this first; concentrate on proper grammar, and English instead of wasting peoples time. *Have a nice day.*

[@cameron.lau.7567]

Why she painting in heels?

[@FUBAR956]

1: what if the package is something brake able? 2: What the package is larger and catches to the trapdoor? 3: Do the packages always land neatly stacked as shown?

[@MrMpa31]

If it breaks that easy, then it wouldnt have survived the shipping process

[@twingytwango6971]

OR you can go to IKEA and get one of those wooden boxes for storing garden furniture cushions.......from there you can add the remainder......

[@bellocinodeoro]

Cool that you spray paint in high heals. It shows that there is no excuse to go and create.

[@Morpha-Ahprom]

💖

[@leemutschler]

I would like to vote for Care STL

[@jacobduggan9464]

Love the feet! 🦶

[@sunnyvangloria2084]

Put that box feet fix in the grounds for better protection if they take the box

[@rickyserna1734]

You are smart, and hot style with a beautiful voice

[@jkromes20]

I kid you not i was drawing up designs for one identical to this and decided to look it up to see if anyoine had done it before. lol i thought i was smart

[@crystalwolf3936]

Partner’s For Pets out of Troy, IL!

[@tomkelly00]

JC you'd do better just to buy a kit from IKEA

[@bobmcdermit9857]

You do know people enjoy creating things right?

[@king-vn6fb]

You need a metal one instead a just can just kick that thing and it will fall apart

[@amirahsufian2301]

Now with the pendemic thid would be so cool cause I don’t need to meet the posman😃 noted into next diy project😆

[@susankapustka7055]

I can't believe you guys think that someone cannot use spray paint while wearing heels. Do you think the paint will not stick?//

[@AP-zz1qc]

I’m making this box and really it would’ve been help to include not only the number and measurements of boards but also the HOW MANY BOARDS TO GET!!!! After cutting I’m left with a lot unusable pieces because they are too short. Idk....I regret doing this now. It was about $150 and now going back to Home Depot to get more 1x4’s. SMH

[@franciscocaballero9962]

You know Chain and wire cutters do exist right?

[@laurye8382]

So is this cheaper or should I just buy one made instead

[@forceofone23]

Do you have plans?

[@ascabusi]

Nice project plus Nice shoes

[@Hebdomad7]

You'll want to add hearing protection to that list. Drop saws are VERY loud. I've met people who have hearing loss because they didn't use hearing protection. You can't 'toughen up' vs physics.

[@vickyspies2762]

I would like to nominate CARE STL for your gift card.

[@tevezkeleztheman]

Don't fuck your jeans and fancy footwear up while spraying paint.

[@LithuaniaMania]

Really? Where can I find a carpentress who works in 6 inch heels & painted on jeans?

[@softmetals3702]

all good if you only get one small package otherwise that drop lid is useless i would need this to be 5ft wide,8 ft tall just for amazon

[@colincrooky]

Well done Vicki, I’m planning on making a Delivery Box but I’ll work in metric - Ronald Regan has a lot to answer for. Thank you

[@XavierAncarno]

Nice shoes BTW

[@gilley1058]

Really? Who does woodworking and painting in high heels and tight jeans? Give us a break lady!!!

[@kristinsummers4002]

Belleville Area Humane Society

[@holtmann1026]

Clinton County Humane Society!

[@reh.4919]

Wear whatever you want! Most of these people commenting on your clothes are working from home with no pants on. They would be offended by someone telling them what to do, so ignore them.

[@rchavez5056]

Those also complaining just needed a reason not to do something.

[@theforlornknight]

The issue is safety. The heels are needlessly risky when doing any kind of building. Doing it in the living room is just stupid.

[@kscheuerman5378]

You are my hero!!!! .....You did it...you did it in Blue heels, too. This is a genius design!. Thanks for sharing your video! Take care and God Bless.

[@fxrmike5145]

Thanks for the idea... and for wearing those jeans 😍

[@tevezkeleztheman]

Use your driveway, don't use your brand-new laminate floor. Don't wear high heels. Wtf???? This isn't a fashion video.

[@simonhorler5795]

that's such a woman thing to do, love the heals :) Can you make another one, but this time with a husband better kit on :) Nah but great idea thanks for posting, it has given me food for thought :)I wonder if the dog thought it was his new home :)

[@Idontknowmaybejohnsmith]

Ah, genius idea for the hinge. I want to build my own and couldn’t figure out how to make a good anti tamper hatch.