As parcel pick-up and drop-off networks continue to expand, out-of-home (OOH) delivery’s “rapidly gaining traction” in the UK. 

That’s according to digital shipping platform Sendcloud’s new research, which surveyed 1,000 UK consumers revealing that OOH delivery’s “quickly becoming the preferred option for many, offering greater convenience and control”.

While home delivery remains the most common choice for 79.3% of consumers, the interest in OOH alternatives such as service points and parcel lockers “is surging”.

This year, 26% of shoppers indicated they would choose service point delivery and 33.9% expressed interest in parcel lockers — a significant increase on 2022 when only 7% and 13%, respectively, considered these alternatives.

Notably, serial shoppers (two or more online purchases a week) show a strong preference for OOH options, with 44% favouring delivery to a service point and 46.2% opting for parcel lockers.

Similarly, consumers who live in metropolitan areas also display increased interest, with 36.3% choosing the former and 39.5% the latter.

The report said the shift to OOH delivery is “primarily fuelled by convenience”, with 58.3% of consumers choosing OOH over home delivery.

Additionally, consumers are seeking greater control over how their deliveries are managed with 58.1% wanting the ability to adjust the delivery location or time once the parcel is in transit; 67.5% wanting to choose their preferred delivery day and time; and 82.5% wanting to decide what happens if the first delivery attempt fails.

Sabi Tolou, co-founder of Sendcloud, said: “Consumers are seeking more control and convenience when it comes to their delivery preferences. They want control over where, when, and how their parcels are delivered. The shift toward flexibility is undeniable, and retailers who provide multiple delivery options, including service points and parcel lockers, are positioning themselves to lead in the evolving e-commerce landscape. Offering a strong alternative to home delivery is not just an advantage, it’s essential for staying competitive.”