Parcel delivery is an integral part of our daily lives. From clothing to electronics, we order everything online effortlessly. But what if you're not at home to receive your order? A PostNL parcel point or a DHL service point in your neighbourhood offers a solution. In this article, you'll read why these points are important, what benefits they bring to residents, and how you can even start a parcel point yourself.
What is a PostNL parcel point?
A PostNL parcel point is a physical location, usually in a shop or supermarket, where you can pick up, return, or send your parcels. You can find them at places like Bruna, Jumbo, or a local bookshop. According to PostNL, 90% of Dutch people live within 2 kilometres of a parcel point.
Other delivery services such as DHL, DPD, and UPS also have their own networks of collection points. These service points offer more flexibility, sustainability, and convenience.
Why a PostNL parcel point in your neighbourhood is so handy
As a resident, you benefit from several advantages:
- Always nearby: You don't have to wait for the courier or take a day off.
- Safety: Your parcel is stored securely until you collect it.
- Sustainability: Fewer vans on the street means less CO₂ emissions.
- Efficiency: Combine collection with your shopping or a visit to the store.
- Social factor: In many neighbourhoods, parcel points create extra buzz and social interaction.
DHL and other providers are also active in the neighbourhood
DHL ServicePoints are also widely available in the Netherlands. You can find them at Albert Heijn, SPAR, and smaller local shops. According to DHL Parcel, 1 in 3 customers now consciously chooses a collection point instead of home delivery.
Additionally, there are DPD Pickup points, UPS Access Points, and even parcel lockers, allowing you to collect your order 24/7.
Starting a parcel point in your shop or business
Want to contribute to your neighbourhood as an entrepreneur and attract extra customers? Consider starting a PostNL parcel point or DHL service point yourself.
1. Register with a carrier
2. What do you need for a PostNL parcel point?
- A counter or desk
- Sufficient storage space
- Staff to assist customers
- Access to the carrier's software
3. Combine functions smartly
A flower shop or bookshop can easily function as a collection point. This brings more foot traffic to your store and contributes to the neighbourhood.
For more tips on facilities in your neighbourhood, you can read our
earlier blog!
Innovations: parcel lockers and neighbourhood hubs
More and more carriers are placing parcel lockers in supermarkets, stations, or near car parks. These are accessible 24 hours a day with a QR code. PostNL and DHL are expanding their networks with these smart lockers.
According to TNO, these systems contribute to more efficient delivery and less traffic pressure in the neighbourhood.
Additionally, experiments are being conducted in cities with neighbourhood hubs: central locations where parcels from multiple carriers are consolidated. In Utrecht, this led to 60% fewer traffic movements in residential streets.
Tips for using parcel points smartly
- Choose a parcel point if you are often not at home.
- Combine it with shopping or a visit to the hairdresser.
- Use the PostNL or DHL apps for notifications.
- Ask the shopkeeper about quiet times to collect your parcel.
- Order multiple products at once to bundle delivery.
Conclusion
A PostNL parcel point is more than just a collection location. It contributes to sustainability, safety, convenience, and vibrancy in your neighbourhood. Whether you receive parcels, send them, or are an entrepreneur yourself: parcel points are a valuable addition to the modern street scene.
