You might have spotted them appearing outside supermarkets, train stations, or in shopping centres - those banks of metal compartments that seem to be multiplying. These are parcel lockers, and they’re quietly transforming how we receive our online orders.
The basics
Parcel lockers (sometimes called Automated Parcel Machines or APMs) are secure, self-service storage units where you can collect deliveries, return items, or send packages. Instead of having a parcel delivered to your home, you have it sent to a locker near you. When it arrives, you get a notification with a code or QR scan, head over whenever suits you, and grab your package.
Why people are switching
No more playing delivery roulette. We’ve all experienced the frustration of “Sorry we missed you” cards. With a locker, your package waits for you - not the other way around. Working late? Out for dinner? Doesn’t matter.
Round-the-clock access. Most outdoor parcel lockers are available 24/7. Night owls and early risers alike can collect packages on their own schedule.
Better security. Lockers are typically monitored by CCTV and require authentication to open. Your package isn’t sitting on a doorstep waiting to be stolen.
Often cheaper. Locker delivery tends to be one of the more affordable shipping options at checkout, since it’s more efficient for carriers than individual home deliveries.
Greener, too. One delivery van stopping at a locker bank serves dozens of customers, rather than driving to each address separately. It adds up.
How it actually works
Here’s what the process looks like with InPost, one of the larger locker networks. The experience is similar with other carriers like DPD, GLS, Chronopost, Colissimo, or Mondial Relay.
Collecting a package
- When shopping online, look for InPost (or another locker option) at checkout - often under “pickup point” or “click & collect”
- Select a locker location that works for you
- When your parcel arrives, you’ll receive a notification with a pickup code and/or QR code
- At the locker, you have three options: open the door remotely from the app, enter your numeric code on the screen, or scan the QR code
- Grab your parcel and go
Making a return
- Start your return with the retailer and select InPost as your return method - they’ll email you a QR code
- Check locker availability before heading out (popular locations fill up)
- At the locker, scan your QR code - hold your phone about 15cm away with brightness turned up
- Choose the smallest compartment that fits your parcel (no extra charge if only larger ones are available)
- Pop your parcel in, close the door, and you’re done
Sending a package
- Package your item securely and get your shipping label or QR code
- Find a locker with available space - the app or website will show compartment availability
- Scan your label at the screen, place your parcel inside, and close the door
Most locker screens will offer a QR code for a digital receipt at the end of your session.
The bottom line
Parcel lockers solve a genuine problem: the mismatch between delivery schedules and modern life. They’re not for every situation - bulky furniture or time-sensitive perishables still need direct delivery - but for the average online order, they offer a combination of convenience, security, and flexibility that traditional home delivery often can’t match.
Next time you’re checking out online, it might be worth seeing if there’s a locker option nearby.