Why your locker is more than a steel box
Previously, a locker was mainly intended for a wet coat. Today, employees store their personal items, tablets, scanners, and sometimes even laptops in them. It is their personal ‘wallet’ on the shop floor.
The challenge in 2026? Speed and flexibility. Employees often switch shifts or roles. A mechanical key system with hundreds of keys is then a nightmare for facility managers. Therefore, we look at providers who think along with solutions that speed up your workflow and control your costs.
The Top Providers: Who is right for your situation?
The market for warehouse lockers is diverse. Some focus on mass production, others on high-tech integration. Below is an overview of the companies setting the tone in 2026, starting with the most comprehensive option for professional logistics environments.
1. Olssen: The integrator for smart storage
If you look at the combination of solid German steel and Dutch IT integration, Olssen stands out. This is not a company that simply sells boxes; they are a System Integrator. They supply lockers that seamlessly connect to your personnel systems, which is essential for large teams.
They work a lot with the ‘S2000’ series (strong steel, DIN-standardized) but also have the ‘Evolo’ line for a sleek look and extra strength. What really sets Olssen apart is their partnership with software platforms like Keynius. This allows managers to see remotely which lockers are occupied and open them via the cloud.
For companies that want to store tablets or scanners safely (and charge them!), Olssen offers specific ‘Asset Management’ lockers. These are often equipped with integrated charging points (USB-C is the standard in 2026). Whether you are setting up a food distribution center or an office building, their HPL (High Pressure Laminate) lockers are resistant to moisture and aggressive cleaning agents.
2. Lockerbox: Flexible and service-oriented
Lockerbox distinguishes itself with its focus on electronic locking systems and rental models. They are strong in situations where the number of users fluctuates, such as events or logistics hubs with many flexible workers. Their systems are often centrally controlled, which greatly simplifies management.
3. Sonesto: Robust for the logistics sector
Sonesto explicitly focuses on the logistics sector with a high service level. Their lockers are known for their durability in harsh environments. They understand the daily wear and tear in a warehouse and respond to this with strong materials and user-friendly locks.
4. Manutan / Schäfer Shop: The budget standard
If you are looking for the basics, Manutan and Schäfer Shop are the names to know. They offer standard steel lockers at very competitive prices. This is the choice for companies where functionality comes first and the budget is limited. They are perfect for general storage without complex integrations.
5. C-Lockers: Specialist in heavy industry
Where things get really tough, C-Lockers is the specialist. Their lockers are robust, often double-walled, and equipped with reinforced hinges. They are designed for extreme loads and vandalism, ideal for construction or heavy industry.
Prices in 2026: What can you expect?
Prices vary greatly depending on material, lock technology, and number of units. The table below gives a clear picture of the price range per provider. Note: these are indications per door/section, excluding VAT and installation.
| Provider | Segment | Locking system type | Suitable for | Price range per unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olssen | Premium/Smart | RFID, App, QR | High-tech warehouses | €300 – €700 |
| Manutan | Budget/Standard | Cylinder, Padlock | General storage | €90 – €160 |
| Sonesto | Mid-range | Code, Card | Shift work/Logistics | €200 – €400 |
| Lockerbox | Service-oriented | Electronic central | Changing teams | €250 – €500 |
| Schäfer Shop | Budget | Mechanical | Small-scale warehouse | €80 – €150 |
In addition, you must take installation costs into account. These are often around 10% to 15% of the hardware value, depending on complexity (power supply/network).
Choosing the right locker: Materials and specifications
Not every locker is suitable for every environment. In 2026, there are a few standards you should know.
Standard Cloakroom Lockers
Made of steel (powder coated), width usually 30cm or 40cm per compartment. Ventilation is important; wet clothing must be able to dry. Look for models with perforation in the doors or back wall. This prevents odors and mold.
Asset Lockers (Asset management)
These are for scanners, tablets, and voice-pick equipment. They are narrower than cloakroom lockers (sometimes 20cm wide) but often deeper. The most important feature? An integrated charging point. USB-C is the standard in 2026. Ensure the locker has an open space or ventilation opening at the charging point to prevent heat.
Cleanroom / HPL Lockers
For warehouses in the food or pharma sector, stainless steel or HPL (High Pressure Laminate) is the norm. HPL is scratch-resistant, resistant to chemicals, and easy to clean. These lockers often have tight seams so that dirt and bacteria have no chance.
Heavy Industrial Cabinets
For work environments where there is a risk of impact, choose double-walled steel and reinforced hinges. These models often have a rounded door (door bulging), so it does not dent if something bumps into it.
Locking systems: From key to Cloud
The choice of lock largely determines user-friendliness and long-term costs.
Mechanical (Cylinder or Deadbolt)
The cheapest option. Disadvantage? Key loss. A replacement key quickly costs €15, and with mass losses, it adds up. A master key is essential here for managers.
RFID (Warehouse card)
Many logistics companies already use cards for access. RFID lockers often work with these. Ideal, because you don’t need to carry extra cards. If the card is lost, you can simply deactivate access to the locker.
Smart Lockers (SaaS / Cloud)
This is the future. Managers have a dashboard where they can see in real-time which lockers are occupied. This makes ‘dynamic locker use’ possible: you don’t necessarily need a locker for every employee, but you can share them (for example, in two shifts). These systems are often more expensive to purchase but offer huge savings in management.
Biometrics
In 2026, we see more and more fingerprint or facial recognition. It is important to choose systems that store biometric data locally on the card or device (GDPR-proof), and not centrally in a database.
Important points to consider when buying
Before requesting a quote, check these points. They prevent disappointment upon delivery or installation.
NEN standards and Safety
Check whether the lockers comply with NEN-EN 16121+A1. This is a standard for the safety, strength, and durability of furniture. This is essential in warehouses with heavy goods.
Fire Safety (CRUCIAL in 2026)
We have more and more equipment with lithium-ion batteries (scanners, tablets). These can cause fires. Insurers often require fire-resistant lockers with extinguishing equipment if you want to charge these devices in lockers.
Floor Load
A block of 15 lockers can be extremely heavy (sometimes more than 500kg). Check the point load of your warehouse floor, especially if you are working with mezzanine floors.
Plinth or Legs?
* Legs: Easier to clean underneath (hygiene) and a more modern look. Adjustable feet help with uneven floors.
* Closed plinth: Prevents dirt and dust from crawling under the cabinets, but can become a ‘dust trap’ over time.
Swing Direction and Space
Standard doors open to the right. Do you have narrow aisles between racks? Consider narrow turning circles or sliding doors to save space.
Logistics, Delivery, and Saving Tips
Delivery times in 2026 can be long. Standard steel lockers are often available within 1 to 3 weeks. Is it custom work or complex Smart Lockers? Then expect 8 to 14 weeks. Delivery usually takes place ‘behind the first door’. If you need to move the lockers to another floor, there are often extra costs for a moving lift.
Practical saving tips for the reader
- Leasing (As-a-Service): More and more often, locker installations are offered ‘as-a-service’. For example, you pay €5 to €10 per locker per month. This keeps your capital free and shifts maintenance to the supplier.
- Refurbished: Due to the circular economy, the market for ‘certified pre-owned’ cabinets is growing. Old cabinets are often fitted with new, smart locks. This can save up to 40% on purchase costs.
- Modular construction: Buy cabinets that can later be expanded with smart modules. Start with mechanical locks and upgrade to RFID later when your budget allows.
Do you want to specifically look at storage for packages? Then check out the options for Parcel lockers ordering Netherlands 2026: prices from €275 [Table].
For companies that want to seamlessly link their access control, it is smart to look at API access control lockers providers Netherlands 2026: prices €245+ [Checklist].
Many warehouses struggle with the storage and charging of laptops and tablets. A specific solution for this can be found here: Laptop tablet storage ordering Netherlands 2026: prices from €325 [Table].
Finally, if you are looking for solutions for sports and business spaces, it is worth checking out the options for Gym lockers providers Netherlands 2026: prices €175+ [Checklist].
Ultimately, it comes down to the question: do you only want to store things, or do you want a system that supports your logistics process? The choice of a party that looks further than the metal pays for itself in the long run.
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