As online shopping grows, parcel lockers emerge as the solution to common delivery frustrations.
- Missed deliveries are a major concern for consumers leading to increased interest in parcel lockers.
- Out-of-home (OOH) delivery options are being adopted widely, with 58% of B2C deliveries now using them.
- Convenience and cost-effectiveness are key factors driving the shift towards parcel lockers.
- Retailers see a reduction in cart abandonment by offering diverse delivery options like OOH.
The challenges of missed deliveries are a significant frustration for online shoppers. With packages often left at doorsteps, returned to sorting facilities, or lost in transit, consumers are looking for more reliable solutions. Parcel lockers are gaining traction as a preferred method, enabling shoppers to collect parcels at their convenience without the risk of missed deliveries or the hassle of tracking down lost packages.
The demand for flexibility in delivery is clear, with 45% of consumers expressing a preference for out-of-home (OOH) delivery options like parcel lockers, according to YouGov research. For individuals with demanding schedules, such as night shift workers or busy professionals, 24/7 accessible parcel lockers provide an invaluable service. This convenient, round-the-clock access is in stark contrast to traditional parcel shops, which may not cater to the needs of those with less conventional availability.
Cost-effectiveness is another driving force behind the adoption of parcel lockers. A survey by Sendcloud reveals that 71% of consumers would opt for OOH delivery if it reduced costs significantly compared to home delivery. By choosing such services, consumers are not only benefitting from greater convenience but also more affordable delivery solutions, aligning with modern consumer expectations.
For retailers, offering a variety of delivery options is crucial. A report from Sendcloud indicates that 44% of European consumers abandon online purchases if their preferred delivery method is unavailable. Incorporating OOH solutions like parcel lockers and service points not only aids in reducing cart abandonment but also enhances customer satisfaction by providing more control over the delivery process.
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers, and parcel lockers support this agenda by reducing the frequency of delivery attempts and, consequently, carbon emissions. Research from InPost shows an 86% reduction in couriers required per 1,000 lockers compared to home deliveries. As the last mile accounts for up to 30% of a city’s emissions, shifting to OOH delivery can substantially impact sustainability efforts.
The shift towards parcel lockers is also driven by the need to improve the delivery experience. Automated Parcel Machines (APMs) and similar OOH options are growing in popularity, with a reported 29% increase across Europe in 2023. This surge highlights the growing demand for delivery flexibility and personalisation, which are essential in today’s ecommerce landscape. retailers are increasingly recognising that doorstep delivery is no longer the default choice, pointing to a more resilient and adaptable fulfillment strategy.
The growing preference for parcel lockers signifies a transformation in consumer expectations, demanding both adaptability and sustainability in delivery options.
