Parcel delivery outside rush hours? Half of Dutch consumers think it's a good idea, according to research into opinions on national mobility by research firm Ruigrok NetPanel.
The increase in vans delivering parcels can hardly have escaped anyone's notice. The strong growth of e-commerce is seen as one of the reasons for the increasing congestion problem. Of the 1551 people surveyed, a narrow majority (51 per cent) indicated that parcels would be better delivered outside rush hours. From 6.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. and from 3.30 p.m. to 7 p.m. are taken as rush hours in this respect.
Home delivery
Reducing freight traffic on roads and in residential areas is important to many Dutch people, the survey shows. 47 per cent of those surveyed say this is more important than getting a parcel delivered to their home as quickly as possible. Interestingly, the statement is endorsed by more highly educated people (53 per cent) than by less educated people (38 per cent).
Despite the many initiatives to collect parcels outside the door, from neighbours or in supermarkets, the Dutch people surveyed still prefer to have parcels delivered at home. A quarter of respondents prefer a central collection point. Research by Abn Amro recently showed a similarly strong preference for home delivery.
