HNers who ship a lot: Apple sign on delivery policy - worth waiving?

I recently got a replacement iPod nano under warranty, and actually getting the item took weeks because we are simply rarely home, but FedEx wouldn't accept a signature. Pretty much our entire neighborhood empties out by 8 am.

I ordered the iPad yesterday for home delivery, not thinking about it at the time, and the cover is now on its way. I have seen pilferage in the supply chain in the military, so I'm not immediately comfortable with the complete release that Apple is offering.

The down side is that I then have to schlep to the FedEx distribution hub, probably at least three times in the next week, to tablet and sundries (camera kit, etc).

Has anyone tried waiving Apple's signature requirement? Has anyone who ships had problems with pilferage from FedEx, DHL, or USPS?