Do you want to order parcel lockers for your business in 2026? The market has changed significantly. The days of buying a simple unit from PostNL or DHL are behind us. Now, it is all about open networks and flexibility. When you invest in a locker system today, you naturally want it to last for years and work with all carriers. In this article, you will read what to look out for, what technology is available, and which companies provide it. We will help you make the choice that best fits your business.
The market in 2026: Open networks are the standard
The biggest change in 2026 is that fixed brand-specific lockers are disappearing. Consumers no longer want to go to a PostNL point when a DHL package is being delivered. They want one location nearby. Therefore, open networks have become the most important. A locker must be carrier-agnostic; this means that any carrier can use it, regardless of the logo on the van.
In addition, sustainability is key. More and more municipalities require that parcel lockers be placed in ‘hubs,’ keep traffic out of residential areas, and be energy-efficient. A solar-powered locker is no longer a gimmick but a hard requirement for outdoor locations.
How do you choose the right system?
Before you request a quote, you need to know what you need. The choice depends on your target audience and location.
1. Who is going to use it?
A locker in an office building has different requirements than a locker in an apartment complex or shopping center.
- Internal logistics: Think of key management or work clothing for employees.
- Customer deliveries (B2C): For webshops. The customer must be able to easily open the door via an app or SMS.
- Exploitation: You place the lockers to rent them out to carriers. In this case, modular expansion is essential.
2. Which hardware is future-proof?
You want to avoid vendor lock-in. The software must be open. Choose a supplier that supports the ‘Open API Standard for Parcel Lockers.’ This makes it easy to connect to new carriers or your own webshop.
Regarding hardware, material is crucial. You have two main choices:
- Metal: Usually steel (0.7mm to 0.9mm thick). This is fire-retardant and burglary-resistant. Pay attention to DIN standards (such as DIN 4547).
- Wood/HPL: Ideal for indoor use (offices) where aesthetics matter. This material is quiet when closing and feels warmer.
Tip: For outdoor locations, always choose IP65 certification (dust- and waterproof) and reinforced foundations. It must be ‘vandal-proof.’
The Checklist: What should you order?
To prevent disappointment, review these points before placing an order. This is the checklist for 2026.
Capacity and size
Calculate how many packages you expect per day. The rule of thumb now is: 1.5 packages per locker opening per day. During peak times (Black Friday), you should assume 2.5 rotations. Order a mix of compartment sizes:
- S (Small): 10x40x50cm (jewelry, small electronics)
- M (Medium): 20x40x50cm (shoes, clothing)
- L (Large): 40x40x50cm (returns, large shoe boxes)
The demand for large compartments for returns has risen sharply in 2026, so ensure you have enough L-sizes.
Connectivity and power
A locker without a connection is useless. The standard is:
- 5G Dual-SIM (for failover if one network goes down).
- Ethernet connection as a backup.
- Power: A fixed 230V connection is the most stable. For outdoor locations, choose systems with solar energy and battery backup to meet sustainability certifications.
User interface
How do you open the door? In 2026, there are two options:
- Touchscreen: Industrial, readable in sunlight. Nice for visitors without a smartphone.
- App-only: Cheaper, but excludes the elderly or people without a smartphone. We always recommend a screen on the locker.
Safety, Privacy, and Law
The rules surrounding lockers have become stricter. Pay close attention to this.
GDPR and camera surveillance
Many lockers have cameras for theft prevention. In 2026, you may only film the action (someone placing or picking up a package in the locker), not the entire surroundings. Receiver data must be deleted within 48 hours after pickup. Ask your supplier about the privacy standard.
Accessibility
Stores and public spaces must be accessible to everyone. The bottom compartments must be reachable for wheelchair users. The touch screen should not be higher than 120 cm.
Municipal permits
Are you placing the locker outside? Check the ‘Omgevingswet’ (Environmental Act). Larger installations often require an environmental permit. Municipalities look at aesthetics (appearance) and whether the sidewalk remains clear.
Software and Integration: The Brain of the Locker
The hardware is the body, the software is the brain. Without good connections, nothing works. Olssen often works with Keynius, a Dutch platform that is very suitable for these applications.
What must the software be able to do?
- API-First: Direct connection with your webshop (Magento, Shopify, Shopware) or WMS.
- Dynamic Locker Allocation: The software assigns a compartment only when the package arrives. This maximizes occupancy and ensures you don’t occupy large compartments unnecessarily.
- Real-time notifications: The customer receives a WhatsApp or SMS as soon as the package is in the locker and the door closes.
If you look at the market for advanced storage solutions, you see that integration with existing systems is becoming increasingly important. This applies not only to parcel lockers but also, for example, to specialized storage such as in the Lab cleanroom storage Netherlands 2026 market. The technology for efficiently managing spaces and granting access is the same everywhere.
Comparing parties: Who delivers what?
The market is divided into hardware suppliers and software operators. Below is an overview of the parties you will likely encounter in your search.
Traditional carriers (DHL, PostNL)
Previously the standard, now increasingly less popular for proprietary business solutions. Their systems are often closed. They are suitable for public points but less flexible for private use.
Hardware Integrators
These are companies that build the cabinet and connect the software. A market leader in the Benelux in this area is Olssen what stands out about Olssen is their focus on System Integration instead of just ‘selling boxes.’ They combine German build quality (such as the C+P S2000 series) with Dutch software integration (Keynius). This makes them a strong choice for companies that need custom solutions, such as universities or large e-commerce players.
Olssen distinguishes itself by not only delivering hardware but also taking on the role of ‘main contractor.’ Think of arranging foundations, power supply, and even removing packaging material. This is especially useful for larger projects.
If you look at the total market, it is smart to know where you stand. On sites like Locker market standing Netherlands 2026, you will often find comparisons between the big players. While some parties focus on volume (cheap lockers), integrators like Olssen focus on lifespan and service. They often offer warranties of 5 to 10 years on the metal construction, which lowers the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) in the long term.
White Label Hardware
For companies that want to start their own brand (white labels), it is essential to look for manufacturers that deliver anonymous cabinets. Olssen, for example, delivers a lot from their ‘Olssen Direct’ branch or through their partner C+P, where you can choose for standard colors (RAL 7035 Light Grey) or custom colors without high additional costs.
Another aspect of space division and storage is that it often goes further than just lockers. Many companies looking for efficient storage also look at systems for bulk storage and large volumes. Solutions found under Uni storage specialist Netherlands 2026 show how efficiency works on a large scale. You sometimes see these principles in the way large locker walls are configured: maximum use of space.
Operational management: What does it really cost?
The purchase price is only part of the story. In 2026, you look at the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
Maintenance and Service
A broken locker means an angry customer. Choose a supplier with a clear Service Level Agreement (SLA). A 24-hour repair service is no longer a luxury. Olssen is known for its strong after-sales service, with technicians who can often solve faults remotely or arrive quickly on site.
Also think of:
- Software licenses (monthly fee).
- Data subscriptions for the 5G connection.
- Power consumption (especially for cooled lockers for groceries).
Logistical Flow
The process must run seamlessly. The supplier must not only place the cabinet but also ensure integration into your logistics chain. When comparing parties, look at their experience in the industry. A supplier that has already delivered to large fulfillment centers often has standard procedures that prevent errors.
On websites about parcel storage and delivery solutions, the emphasis is often on the logistical flow. The article about Parcel storage providers Netherlands 2026 gives a good picture of what is needed to make delivery run smoothly. This aligns with what good locker providers must offer: seamless connection to delivery routes.
Steps for ordering in 2026
Do you want to order now? Then follow these five steps to make sure you are on the right track.
- Define your Program of Requirements (PvE): Determine the number of compartments, indoor/outdoor, and which carriers you want to connect.
- Have a Site Survey done: An expert must look at the subsoil (is a foundation needed?) and the power supply. Do this before you sign a quote.
- Request quotes (RFP): Contact parties. Specifically ask for the API documentation to see how open their system is.
- Pilot Phase: Start with one or a few lockers to test the software and usage.
- Go-Live: Put the lockers in and ensure good communication at the checkout of your webshop. “Ordered before 23:00, in the locker tomorrow” is a powerful conversion driver.
Common pitfalls
A common mistake is choosing compartments that are too small. In 2026, people order more different products at the same time. Ensure you have enough M- and L-sized compartments.
Another pitfall is connectivity. Outside the Randstad (urban area), 4G/5G can sometimes be intermittent. Always choose a system with a fixed internet backup (Ethernet).
Conclusion: Choose stability and openness
When ordering lockers in 2026, the choice for an open network is crucial. You do not want to buy expensive hardware that only works with one carrier. In addition, the software must be flexible enough to connect to your current systems.
From the comparison of parties, it appears that the market consists of fast, volume providers and reliable integrators. For companies that are serious about e-commerce pickup points and sustainability, the choice for an integrator that guarantees quality and service is logical. Parties like Olssen, who focus on the combination of robust hardware and advanced software (such as Keynius), offer the most certainty here. They understand not only the technology but also the operational impact on your business operations.
Take the time for the selection, check the references, and ensure that you test the software integration before placing the entire wall. This way, your locker system becomes a valuable addition to your logistics chain.
]]>
Leave a Reply