The Hidden Numbers Behind Parcel Lockers

With the holiday season approaching, more consumers are turning to parcel lockers for their convenience and round-the-clock availability. But behind this convenience lies a data-driven strategy that determines why some parcel lockers succeed while others struggle. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers behind parcel lockers and how Location Intelligence can transform locker placement for optimal performance.

The Booming European Parcel Locker Market: 30 Billion Parcels by 2028

The European parcel market is experiencing exponential growth, with forecasts predicting a rise from 17 billion parcels in 2022 to 30 billion by 2028. This surge is driven by the explosion of e-commerce, accelerated by changing consumer behaviors and growing demand for faster, more flexible delivery options. Industry reports from Last Mile Experts and McKinsey both support these numbers, emphasizing the critical need for businesses to adapt their last-mile strategies. ​(Source: Parcel Tech Int, McKinsey & Company).

The High Cost of Last-Mile Delivery: 40-50% of Total Distribution Costs

Last-mile delivery is one of the most expensive components of logistics, accounting for 40-50% of total distribution costs for carriers. The inefficiencies of to-door deliveries, including failed delivery attempts and traffic congestion, add substantial costs. This makes it essential for businesses to streamline their last-mile solutions, and parcel lockers offer a cost-effective alternative by centralizing deliveries and reducing the need for multiple stops​ (Source: Parcel Tech Int, Supply Chain Brain)

The Rise of Out-of-Home Solutions: 50% of Deliveries Already OOH

In high-volume markets like the Nordics, France, Germany, and Poland, 50% of deliveries are already handled through out-of-home (OOH) solutions, such as parcel lockers and PUDO (Pick-Up and Drop-Off) points. This trend is only growing as consumers demand flexibility and sustainability in their delivery options. The data suggests that parcel lockers are quickly becoming an indispensable part of the last-mile ecosystem in Europe​. (Source: Parcel Tech Int, Supply Chain Brain)

The Future of Parcel Lockers: 80% of Parcels Delivered to Lockers by 2030

Looking ahead, industry experts predict that 80% of parcels in Europe will be delivered through parcel lockers by 2030. This shift is not just driven by convenience; it’s also a response to growing pressure for environmentally sustainable logistics solutions. Parcel lockers can reduce local emissions by up to 35% when combined with other green logistics methods, such as electric vehicles or optimized delivery routes​ (Source: Supply Chain Brain, McKinsey & Company)

Breaking Even: 30-50% Occupancy Required

To be financially viable, parcel lockers must achieve an occupancy rate of 30-50%. This means the location must generate enough foot traffic and usage to justify the initial investment, which typically ranges from €20,000 to €40,000 for installation. With the required occupancy, it typically takes 12-24 months to reach the break-even point. Simply placing lockers in random spots isn’t enough—this is where Location Intelligence becomes crucial​. (Source: Parcel Tech Int, Supply Chain Brain)

Why Guess When You Can Use Data?

Now, if you were tasked with placing a parcel locker, would you:

• Place it next to a competitor?

• Use data-driven insights to find the optimal spot?

While it may seem tempting to place your locker near a competitor, the data shows this doesn’t guarantee success. In fact, it may lead to oversaturation and missed opportunities. Instead, using Location Intelligence allows businesses to make informed decisions that optimize performance. Factors like population dynamics, mobility patterns, and local points of interest ensure that lockers are placed in the best spots to meet demand and drive profitability. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, as the combination of key factors is different for each company.

How Location Intelligence Drives Success of Parcel Lockers

Choosing the right location for parcel lockers can make or break their performance. Location Intelligence combines internal data analysis (such as parcel locker performance) and spatial insights to determine the best possible sites for parcel lockers. Here’s how it works:

• Population Dynamics: This involves analyzing demographic data to understand who lives and works near potential locker locations. Does the population in the area have the right characteristics to drive frequent locker use?

• Purchasing Power: Assessing the local purchasing power helps determine whether the area's consumers are likely to use parcel lockers frequently. Higher purchasing power often correlates with higher e-commerce usage, making certain areas more suitable for locker placement.

• Mobility Patterns: This is where data on foot and vehicle traffic comes into play. By analyzing how people move through an area, businesses can identify high-traffic zones that increase the likelihood of lockers being used regularly.

• Points of Interest (POI): Parcel lockers near popular locations such as shopping centers, office buildings, or transit hubs tend to perform better. POI data helps pinpoint these high-demand areas, ensuring lockers are placed where they’ll attract the most traffic.

Optimizing Parcel Locker Locations with Location Intelligence

Take Dr. Max, Europe’s second-largest pharmacy chain, as an example. By applying CleverMaps Location Intelligence, Dr. Max was able to identify the best locations for its parcel lockers. The platform analyzed population demographics, foot traffic, and nearby points of interest to ensure their lockers were placed in high-demand areas, driving consistent usage and maximizing ROI. This case shows how businesses can use data to make informed decisions that lead to success. Read the full case study.

Conclusion: Secure the Best Spots Before Your Competitors Do

Parcel lockers are more than just a convenience—they’re a strategic investment that can boost efficiency, reduce costs, and support sustainability. However, success hinges on choosing the right locations. Attractive spots are limited, so it’s important to act fast. Use Location Intelligence to stay ahead of the competition and ensure your lockers are always in the best locations to drive usage and maximize ROI.

Explore CleverMap's Parcel Lockers Expansion Solution and request your demo today.