Online shopping has made parcel deliveries a regular part of everyday life. From clothing and electronics to household essentials, many homes now receive several deliveries every week. But having a secure parcel box is only part of the solution. Where you put your parcel box can make a significant difference to how convenient, accessible and practical it is.
A parcel box needs to be easy for delivery drivers to reach while remaining convenient for you to access. It should also be positioned on a suitable surface and, ideally, have some protection from harsh weather and potential obstructions.
So, where is the best place to put a parcel box? In this guide, we’ll explore the most practical placement options for UK homes and explain what to consider before choosing the location.
What Makes a Good Parcel Box Location?
Before installing a parcel box, think about how it will be used on a typical delivery day.
A good location should provide:
- Easy access for couriers
- Convenient access for homeowners
- Enough space to open the box
- A suitable surface for installation
- Protection from unnecessary exposure to the weather
- Clear access without blocking paths, gates or doors
The best location will vary depending on your property. A terraced house with a small front garden may require a different solution from a detached home with a large driveway.
The important thing is to choose a location that works for both the delivery driver and the person collecting the parcel.
1. Near the Front Door
For many homes, placing a parcel box near the front entrance is one of the most convenient options.
A location close to the front door means couriers can quickly identify where deliveries should be left. It also makes it easier for you to collect parcels without walking across the garden or driveway.
However, make sure the box doesn’t interfere with:
- Opening the front door
- Walking through the entrance
- Access to steps
- Other delivery routes
If you have sufficient space beside the entrance, a parcel delivery box can provide a practical and accessible storage point.
2. In the Front Garden
A front garden can be another excellent location for a parcel box, particularly if there is enough space near the property’s entrance.
Positioning the box towards the front of the garden can make it easy for delivery drivers to reach without needing to enter the house’s private areas.
When choosing this location, consider the distance from the pavement or driveway and whether the box can be installed securely on a suitable surface.
Avoid placing it behind plants, garden furniture or other objects that could make it difficult for a courier to find or access.
3. Beside the Driveway
If your property has a driveway, the area beside it can be a practical place for a parcel box.
Drivers can usually approach the property easily, while you can access deliveries from the driveway without having to walk around the house.
This location can be particularly useful for households that receive frequent deliveries.
However, make sure the parcel box doesn’t obstruct vehicles, pedestrians or access to gates.
A freestanding design can work particularly well where there is suitable ground and enough space around the box.
4. Beside a Gate
For some properties, installing a parcel box near the front gate makes deliveries particularly convenient.
A gate-side location can allow couriers to access the box without needing to enter the garden or approach the front door.
This can be useful if:
- Your gate is close to the pavement
- There is enough room for the box
- The box can be securely installed
- The opening isn’t obstructed by the gate
Always check that the parcel box doesn’t prevent the gate from opening or closing properly.
5. On or Through a Suitable Fence
A fence can provide an excellent installation point, especially when garden or driveway space is limited.
Some parcel boxes are specifically designed to be installed through a fence, allowing parcels to be deposited from one side while providing access from the other.
This type of installation can make excellent use of an existing boundary without requiring a separate freestanding structure.
If you’re considering this option, explore through-fence parcel boxes to find a design suited to this type of installation.
6. On a Wall Near the Entrance
A wall-mounted parcel box can be a good choice for properties where floor space is limited.
Installing a box on a suitable exterior wall can keep the ground area clear while providing couriers with a clearly accessible delivery point.
Before choosing a wall, check that it is suitable for mounting and capable of supporting the parcel box securely.
Brick or concrete walls may provide suitable mounting surfaces, but the correct fixings and installation method will depend on the specific product and surface.
For properties with limited outdoor space, wall mounted parcel boxes can offer a practical alternative to freestanding models.
7. In a Sheltered Area or Porch
If your property has a porch, covered entrance or another suitable sheltered area, this could provide additional protection from rain and other weather conditions.
A sheltered position can be particularly useful in the UK, where wet and windy conditions are common.
However, don’t automatically assume that a sheltered location is the best choice. The area still needs to provide sufficient space for couriers to access the parcel box and for you to open it comfortably.
Check that:
- The entrance isn’t too narrow
- The parcel box can be opened fully
- Couriers can easily identify it
- The installation surface is suitable
How Important Is Courier Access?
Courier access should be one of your main considerations when deciding where to put a parcel box.
Even a high-quality parcel box becomes less useful if the delivery driver cannot easily reach it.
Try to choose a position where the courier can:
- Approach the property easily.
- See the parcel box without searching.
- Open the delivery compartment.
- Place the parcel inside without obstruction.
- Secure the box after making the delivery.
A clear and straightforward delivery route can make the process easier for both you and the courier.
Should a Parcel Box Be Visible From the Road?
There’s no universal rule that says a parcel box must or must not be visible from the road. The right choice depends on your property layout and personal preferences.
A clearly visible box can make it easier for couriers to locate the delivery point. However, you may prefer a position that blends into your garden or sits closer to the entrance.
The key is finding a balance between accessibility, practicality and the appearance of your property.
If the box is hidden behind a wall, hedge or other obstruction, consider whether a courier will still be able to identify it easily.
Where Should You Avoid Putting a Parcel Box?
Some locations may look convenient but can cause problems in everyday use.
Avoid installing a parcel box where it:
Blocks a Pathway
A parcel box shouldn’t create an obstruction for people walking to or from your home.
Interferes With a Gate
Check that the box doesn’t prevent a gate from opening fully.
Gets Surrounded by Water
Avoid areas where rainwater regularly collects or where drainage is poor.
Is Difficult for Couriers to Reach
A location that requires a driver to navigate obstacles or enter an inaccessible area may not be practical.
Has Limited Opening Space
Remember that you need enough room to open the parcel box fully and remove deliveries.
Choose the Parcel Box Based on Its Location
Your chosen location can also influence which type of parcel box is most suitable.
For example:
- Limited floor space: Consider a wall-mounted model.
- Suitable fence: A through-fence parcel box may be appropriate.
- Large driveway or garden: A freestanding parcel box could provide greater flexibility.
- Frequent large deliveries: Consider whether you need a larger capacity model.
This is why it’s useful to decide where the box will go before choosing the exact model.
Think About Parcel Size Too
Location isn’t the only factor. You should also consider the size of parcels your household typically receives.
If you mainly receive smaller packages, a standard-sized parcel box may be sufficient. If your household regularly receives larger deliveries or multiple packages, you may need additional capacity.
For guidance on choosing between different sizes, see our guide to Large vs Extra Large Parcel Boxes.
The aim is to choose a box that fits both your available space and your typical delivery requirements.
Choosing the Right Location With Ryzan
At Ryzan, parcel boxes are designed for different property layouts and delivery requirements. Before choosing a model, consider where the box will be positioned, how couriers will access it and how much space you have available.
Whether you need a wall-mounted, through-fence or freestanding solution, selecting the right installation style can make your parcel delivery system considerably more convenient.
It’s also worth considering factors such as parcel capacity, access and the conditions the box will be exposed to throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
The best place to put a parcel box is somewhere that combines easy courier access, convenient collection and secure installation.
For some homes, the ideal position will be beside the front door. For others, a driveway, gate, fence or exterior wall may provide a better solution.
Before installing your parcel box, consider the available space, the way couriers approach your property, how the box will be opened and whether anything could obstruct access.
A little planning before installation can make a significant difference to how useful your parcel box is in everyday life. With the right location and the right type of box, you can make receiving online deliveries simpler and more convenient for your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to put a parcel box?
The best location is generally somewhere that is easy for couriers to access and convenient for you to collect parcels. This could be near the front door, driveway, gate, fence or another suitable entrance area.
Can I put a parcel box on a fence?
Yes, some parcel boxes are specifically designed for through-fence installation. Always check the product’s installation requirements and make sure your fence is suitable.
Should a parcel box be covered?
A sheltered location can provide additional protection from the weather, but many outdoor parcel boxes are designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Check the specifications of the model you choose.
Can I install a parcel box beside my driveway?
Yes. A driveway can be a practical location provided the box doesn’t obstruct vehicles, pedestrians or access to gates and entrances.
How close should a parcel box be to the front door?
There isn’t one universal distance. It should be close enough to be convenient but positioned where couriers can easily access it without obstruction.
What type of parcel box is best for a small garden?
A wall-mounted or through-fence parcel box can help save ground space. The best choice depends on the layout and available installation surface of your property.