French consumers They show a greater willingness than the British or Dutch to accept alternative delivery methods: 58 percent would allow delivery drivers temporary access to their homes to make deliveries. Similarly, almost two-thirds would accept limited access to their cars, and 88 percent are open to the use of lockers or collection points. This data comes from a survey by B2C Europe Conducted among 1.000 respondents in France, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, the research is the first in a series exploring consumers' openness to new delivery methods.
While British and Dutch consumers are more reluctant to grant access (only around 36% in the UK and 25% in the Netherlands would accept temporary home access), they do show interest in solutions such as lockers, although concerns about security and insurance implications remain. The practical implications and recommendations for e-commerce businesses and carriers shipping to France are outlined below.
French market context and challenges of the first delivery
The French market features a high volume of domestic and international shipments and a strong urban presence with buildings that often have access controlled by codes (digicodes). This combination makes the last Mille in a critical factor for customer experience and operating costs: each failed attempt implies additional expense, delays and more customer service inquiries.
To maximize the first delivery rate, it's advisable to combine several levers: prior customer authorization, real-time tracking, and flexible options (home delivery with controlled access, automated lockers, collection points, and shipment redirection). When managed correctly, these levers reduce incidents and improve customer satisfaction.
Home access: temporary codes and security
That a relative majority of French consumers accept single-use codes Temporary access opens up opportunities to integrate smart locks and dynamic codes into the delivery chain. However, acceptance depends on clear guarantees: one-time codes, access logging and traceability, the ability to revoke permissions, and transparency regarding who accesses the system and when.
In France, the use of digicode at building entrances. To avoid failed attempts, it is recommended that during the purchase process the customer be explicitly asked for the digicode and the name as it appears on the intercom; if this information is missing or does not match the shipping label, the courier may not be able to access the building entrance and the delivery will fail.
In addition to collecting the digicode, best practices include sending clear instructions to the recipient (for example, indicating whether the package should be left in the lobby, mailbox, or with the concierge) and offering alternatives such as rescheduling the delivery or redirecting it to a collection point if access is not possible. These measures reduce failed delivery attempts and security or insurance-related claims.
Using the car as a safe delivery point
The fact that almost two-thirds of French consumers would accept a Limited car access For parcel drop-off, the vehicle is perceived as a convenient and private intermediate space. This option relies on connected technologies (remote opening controlled by the customer) or services that allow the courier timely and controlled access to the trunk or designated area.
To operate safely, businesses must clearly explain how access will be managed: single-delivery permissions, opening/closing logs, real-time notifications to the owner, and details about insurance coverage in case of an incident. Explaining these safeguards reduces the perceived risk and increases customer adoption of the option.
This option is especially useful for users who are away from home during the day and have a vehicle parked in a nearby garage or parking lot. Combined with confirmations and photographic evidence (where applicable) or with electronic registration of the opening, it can reduce failed attempts and improve logistical efficiency.
Lockers, collection points and lockers in France
The lockers and the Points Relais They are a highly valued solution: 88% acceptance in France compared to 64% in the United Kingdom and 53% in the Netherlands. The popularity of collection points is explained by their extended opening hours, convenient location (near home or work), and the perception of greater security compared to leaving packages in doorways or mailboxes.
Networks of convenience points (partner stores, post offices, or automated lockers) allow for consolidated deliveries, reduced routing costs, and offer recipients the flexibility to pick up their packages at their convenience. Many operators complement this option with detailed tracking and notifications via email, SMS, or apps, which increases user confidence.
For eCommerce businesses, offering lockers and Relais points as a default option or as a clear alternative during checkout usually improves the first-time delivery rate and reduces operating costs in dense urban areas.
Best practices for sending parcels and operating in France
When designing a shipping strategy from other countries to France or within France, it is advisable to apply these operational recommendations to reduce costs and friction:
- Verify allowed content: Some items are restricted or prohibited (aerosols, loose lithium batteries, flammable liquids, or certain perishable foods). Checking the regulations avoids issues and returns.
- Pack the package correctly: Use sturdy boxes and appropriate filling material, fill gaps and avoid overloading to reduce damage and claims.
- Label accurately: Include the recipient's full name, exact address, five-digit postal code and country, as well as their phone number or email address to facilitate communication.
- Request and note the digicode and intercom data: essential in buildings with controlled access; without them the delivery person may not be able to access the entrance and the delivery will fail.
- Offer flexible delivery: Options such as pickup point delivery, lockers, vehicle delivery or online rescheduling reduce failed attempts.
In addition, businesses that regularly ship to France should compare logistics operators (national postal services, private couriers, and locker networks) and assess criteria such as transit time, cost per weight bracket, tracking quality, and coverage of collection points in key postal codes.
In summary, the French consumer shows a predisposition towards accessible and flexible delivery methods Provided that security, traceability, and transparency are guaranteed. Integrating options such as temporary home codes, vehicle delivery, and intensive use of lockers and convenience points allows eCommerce businesses and carriers to optimize costs, improve first-time delivery rates, and generate greater trust and loyalty among customers.