Information Guide

How Long Do InPost Hold Parcels?

Got an InPost locker notification? Here's how long you have to collect before the parcel gets returned.

3 min readUpdated April 2025

How long do InPost hold parcels?

InPost lockers typically hold your parcel for 48 hours (2 days) from the time it's deposited. Some retailers and services may allow up to 72 hours.

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Standard hold time: 48 hours from when the parcel is placed in the locker
Some services allow 72 hours - check your collection notification for the exact deadline
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After the deadline the parcel is removed and returned to the sender
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24/7 collection - lockers are available around the clock, so you can collect any time

Quick answer

InPost lockers hold parcels for 48 hours (sometimes 72 hours). You'll receive a notification with a collection code and the exact deadline. Lockers are open 24/7 so you can collect at any time. If you don't collect in time, the parcel is returned to the sender.

What happens if you don't collect in time?

The parcel is removed by an InPost courier and returned to the sender or retailer
Contact the retailer to arrange redelivery or a refund. The parcel goes back to them, not to you.

InPost sends reminder notifications before the deadline expires, so keep an eye on your phone.

Using InPost for the first time? Learn how to use InPost lockers or find out what InPost home delivery is.

Can you extend the collection deadline?

The 48-hour window is fixed. InPost doesn't currently offer an option to extend the hold time. Lockers need to be freed up for other deliveries.

If you know you can't collect within 48 hours, choose an InPost locker near your workplace or daily route instead of one near home. Or select home delivery instead.

Since lockers are 24/7, try to collect as soon as you get the notification. This avoids the risk of forgetting and missing the deadline.

InPost notifications

What to expect0 / 4 checked

Email and/or SMS when your parcel is in the locker with your collection code
The exact collection deadline is stated in the notification
A reminder is sent before the deadline expires
The InPost app shows live status and countdown timer

Comparing collection services? Check how long Yodel keeps parcels or find out Vinted parcel collection times.

Collection tips

Download the InPost app. It shows your collection code, locker location, and countdown timer. You can also open the locker from the app instead of typing the code on the screen.
From ProcuraPack

Sending via InPost?

Make sure your parcel fits the locker. Our postal boxes and mailing bags come in sizes perfect for InPost lockers.

Browse postal packaging

Sending parcels via InPost? Our postal boxes guide covers sizes that fit standard locker compartments.

Frequently asked questions

48 hours from when the parcel is deposited in the locker. Some services allow 72 hours. Check your notification for the exact deadline.

No. The 48-hour window is fixed. Collect as soon as possible to avoid missing it.

The parcel is returned to the sender after the deadline. Contact the retailer to arrange redelivery or a refund.

Yes. You can collect your parcel at any time of day or night.

Use the collection code from your notification on the locker touchscreen, or scan the QR code in the InPost app.

Related articles

How to Use InPost Locker to Send a ParcelWhat Is InPost Home Delivery?How Long Do Yodel Keep Parcels?How Long to Collect a Vinted Parcel?

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