Winter temperatures don’t just impact people’s daily routines - they also put the e‑commerce supply chain to the test. Many consumers may not realize that low temperatures and sudden temperature fluctuations can damage goods stored in outdoor parcel lockers.
According to Sander Borodkin, Head of Sales at SmartPost, the most cold‑sensitive items are cosmetics, dietary supplements, medicines, and electronics. “If a parcel remains outdoors in subzero temperatures for an extended period, it can affect the quality or usability of the product without the consumer noticing immediately,” Borodkin explains.
He notes that many people don’t consider the conditions in which their parcel will wait when placing an order. “Convenience is key in e‑commerce, but during winter it’s worth paying more attention to where the parcel ends up. Temperature fluctuations can be just as critical for the product as transportation itself,” he adds.
One way to reduce cold‑related risks is to store parcels in environments with more stable temperatures. “Indoor parcel lockers help prevent situations where goods are exposed to prolonged cold or rapid temperature changes. This is especially important for sensitive products,” says Borodkin.
Awareness of the role of parcel logistics in maintaining product quality grows during the winter season. “Consumers and merchants are increasingly paying attention to how goods move throughout the supply chain – not just how quickly they arrive,” Borodkin says.
He adds that expectations for service providers have evolved alongside the growth of e‑commerce. “In addition to speed and convenience, ensuring product quality throughout the journey is becoming increasingly important. It’s a topic that both consumers and merchants should focus on more,” Borodkin emphasizes.
You can find more detailed information about indoor parcel lockers here.