FedEx issues nationwide alert as thieves begin robbing mail carriers during holiday rush

We've heard about "porch pirates," but what if your package is stolen before it even gets to your doorstep?

It's a problem that's happening all over the country: Mail carriers are becoming victims of robberies and thefts from their vehicles.

It inspired FedEx to issue a nationwide alert, urging its drivers to be aware.

As videos of mail carrier thefts circulate across the internet, Fedex has alerted thousands of its contractors to prioritize driver safety.

The rise in robberies coincides with a rise in deliveries as the holiday season kicks off.

"We use to have a busiest day or busiest week, but the reality is with so many people being able to shop online, you don’t have to wait for the weekend to go shopping," said Philip Bogenberger of the United States Postal Service.

He says the postal service has seen more packages go through its system over the years.

With the expected holiday surge, they've hired 10,000 seasonal employees.

WRAL News asked FedEx how they’re keeping drivers safe during the holiday surge.

In a statement, they wrote they have rigorous safety measures in place and proactively address potential threats by working with law enforcement and monitoring crime.

Other companies are following suit: UPS drivers are being told to watch their surroundings.

Joe Costanzo, who owns the UPS Store on Wilmington Street, says, "They’re putting maybe two drivers to each route, so this way they’re not all by themselves."

He also suggests homeowners keep their porch light on, because UPS drivers are working late into the night in an effort to make sure your holiday gifts arrive on-time and safely.

FedEx also mentioned they regularly issue reminders to employees about personal and vehicle safety, which includes immediately reporting anything that seems off.