Package Delivery: 4 Types of Parcel Delivery

Curbside delivery is a package delivery method used mostly by last mile carriers that offer heavy parcel delivery services. When a package is too heavy to carry to a customer’s doorstep or house, drivers can unload orders or large packages at the customer’s address, by the curbside, or on the sidewalk.
Curbside delivery is also used when a vehicle is too large and not legally allowed to enter the customer’s residential area as a commercial vehicle constraint.

Threshold delivery is also known as inside delivery. As the name suggests, when a customer opts for threshold delivery, their package will be delivered inside the house, in the doorway. In case the customer lives in an apartment building, the delivery driver will usually hand over the parcel to the customer in the lobby or hallway.

White glove delivery is a premium parcel delivery service requested by customers when their orders require more attention and special handling, such as artwork, antiques, fragile items, disassembled furniture, etc. The package is delivered inside the customer’s house and even installed or assembled if necessary. White glove delivery is more expensive than the other package delivery methods and comes with its own order routing considerations.

Contactless delivery is a package delivery method that requires no contact between field team members and customers. When a contactless delivery is required, the driver places the prepaid package at the customer’s door, rings the doorbell, and ensures that the customer is retrieving the package from a distance. In this case, signature-based proof of delivery is replaced with digital alternatives. Contactless delivery has become more popular since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic social distancing. Contactless delivery helped last mile delivery businesses keep their employees and customers safe.