How To Set Up A Package Room In 2026

Package rooms have become a practical necessity for many apartment buildings and offices. As delivery volume increases, property managers frequently encounter issues such as misplaced packages, front-desk congestion, and inconsistent handoffs.

A well-planned package room helps buildings manage deliveries more efficiently while keeping packages secure and accessible for tenants. The goal isn’t just storage, it’s creating a workflow that works for delivery carriers, building staff, and the people picking up their packages.

When daily deliveries exceed what a front desk can handle, package management quickly becomes a recurring operational concern, particularly in multifamily buildings that lack a dedicated receiving area. In actuality, the most pressing issues in multifamily, mixed-use, and office properties are not storage space, but rather access control, carrier coordination, and consistent pickup.

This guide walks through the key considerations for setting up a package room, from layout and access control to security and day-to-day operations, so buildings can implement a solution that scales as delivery volume grows.

Key Takeaways

Package rooms reduce front-desk congestion, lost deliveries, and resident complaints.
The best setups focus on workflow + security, not just storage space.
Plan for real package volume: oversized items, peak days, and fast turnover.
Access control, cameras, and clear organization keep pickups smooth and secure.
Package rooms are flexible and cost-effective, while lockers are more automated but pricier.

What is a Package Room?

A package room is a dedicated, secure space within a building designed to receive, store, and distribute deliveries for residents or tenants. Unlike traditional front-desk package handling, package rooms centralize deliveries in one controlled area, reducing clutter, manual tracking, and the risk of lost or stolen packages.

Modern package rooms go beyond basic storage. They are purposely constructed to accommodate huge delivery volumes, different carriers, and self-service pickup. Many package rooms will incorporate technology such as access control systems, package logging software, and cameras by 2026 in order to improve accountability and operational efficiency.

Package rooms are frequently found in the following property types:

Multifamily apartment buildings and complexes
Mixed-use developments
Student housing
Office buildings

When properly configured, package rooms help property staff reclaim time, reduce resident complaints, and deliver a more consistent experience as e-commerce volumes continue to grow.

How Do Package Rooms Work?

Package rooms function as a shared delivery hub where carriers, staff, and residents each play a role in the package flow.

1. Delivery Drop-Off

Delivery carriers enter the building and drop off packages in the package room rather than at a leasing office or front desk. Access may be controlled through physical or mobile credentials or intercom systems to ensure only authorized carriers can enter.

2. Package Intake and Organization

Once inside, packages are placed in lockers, on shelves, carts, or in designated zones based on size, carrier, or unit number. In some setups, staff scan or log packages into a management system, while in others the process is fully self-service for carriers.

3. Resident Notification

Depending on the property’s setup, residents are notified when their package arrives through an automated email, text message, app notification, or access control system. In configurations where notifications are enabled, this can reduce inquiries to staff and allow residents to retrieve packages on their own schedule.

4. Secure Pickup

Residents retrieve their packages either by accessing a secured package room with approved credentials or by using a locker system to unlock their assigned compartment. In both setups, cameras and access logs can help deter theft and provide visibility into who entered the space, or accessed a specific locker, and when.

5. Ongoing Management

Property teams monitor package volume, shelf capacity, and dwell time to keep the room running efficiently. Clear signage, rules for oversized or long-term packages, and periodic clean-ups help maintain order as delivery demand fluctuates.

Package rooms eliminate friction from the delivery process and scale significantly better than manual handling, making them a major building feature in 2026 and beyond.

Types of Access-Controlled Package Rooms

Package rooms can be built and managed in different ways, depending on the building’s size, delivery volume, and desired level of automation. Each approach has tradeoffs in terms of flexibility, efficiency, and cost.

Basic Access-Controlled Package Room

This setup uses a dedicated room or space secured with controlled access (e.g., key cards or mobile credentials). Packages are placed inside by carriers and retrieved by recipients or building staff.

It’s a flexible option that works well for buildings with varied package size or unpredictable delivery patterns.

Locker-Based Systems

Locker-based package rooms add compartments of different sizes where carriers place deliveries. Recipients receive a code or notification to retrieve their package from a specific locker.

Lockers help organize packages and reduce sorting effort, which can be useful in buildings with higher delivery volumes or where staff availability is limited.

Dedicated Package Room with Sorting Areas

Some buildings set up their package rooms to include sorting stations or shelves based on delivery routes or recipient groups. This can make it easier for staff to process bulk deliveries and for recipients to find their items quickly.

This setup is especially useful in larger buildings or environments with frequent group deliveries.

Automated or Integrated Package Systems

Automated package management systems integrate with access control and building management software. Sensors and automatic scanning may be used, as well as integration with access control, visitor management, and property management platforms. These integrations can assist to streamline tracking and notifications.

Package Room or Package Locker: What’s Best for You?

When planning how to manage deliveries, many buildings end up choosing between a traditional package room and package lockers. Both approaches solve similar problems, but they work best in different situations.

Package rooms offer flexibility. They can accommodate oversized deliveries, fluctuating package volumes, and changing needs over time. For buildings with high delivery traffic or limited space for individual lockers, a package room allows staff and residents to manage packages without strict size or quantity limits.

From a cost perspective, a basic package room setup using access control or an intercom system is typically more affordable. A common range is $1,500–$3,000 for hardware and installation, plus an ongoing software or access control subscription, depending on the provider and level of integration.

Package lockers, on the other hand, provide a more automated, but generally more expensive experience.

They are often appealing in buildings with predictable delivery volume or minimal staff involvement, since packages are placed into assigned compartments and recipients retrieve them by unlocking a specific locker once notified.

In contrast to package rooms, entry-level package locker systems typically cost between $6,900 and $20,000, with larger systems or additional locker banks increasing the total investment.

The best choice is determined less by whether the solution looks to be more “advanced” and more by how deliveries arrive, how quickly packages turn over, how much space is available, and how much flexibility the building needs as delivery patterns change.

Benefits Of Setting Up A Package Room

Setting up a package room allows buildings to handle the increasing volume of deliveries in a more organized and secure manner. Using a designated room instead of front desks or unsecured general spaces simplifies the process of receiving and storing parcels.

One of the biggest benefits is reduced package loss and misdelivery. With a centralized drop-off location, deliveries are less likely to be misplaced, mixed up, or left unattended in public areas.

Package rooms also help reduce the burden on staff. Instead of tracking individual deliveries or coordinating handoffs, staff can focus on other responsibilities while packages are stored in a predictable location.

Over time, a well-designed package room supports smoother operations by keeping entryways clear, improving security, and making delivery management more scalable as package volume increases.

How to Set Up a Package Room in 2026

Setting up a package room in 2026 is less about following a set procedure and more about creating an area that corresponds to how deliveries go through your building. The most effective setups account for daily volume, carrier behavior, cost considerations, and long-term growth.

Choose the Right location

Start by selecting a location that’s easy for delivery carriers to reach without disrupting residents, employees, or front-desk operations. Package rooms work best when they are close to an access point yet far enough apart to stay secure.

The goal is to make drop-offs quick and predictable while limiting unnecessary foot traffic through the building.

Design for Real Package Sizes and Turnover

Package rooms should be built around the reality of modern deliveries. That means planning for a mix of small parcels, oversized boxes, and fluctuating volume throughout the week.

Flexible shelving, clear labeling, and enough circulation space help prevent clutter and make it easier for both staff and recipients to navigate the room during busy periods.

Plan for Access Control and Security

Access control is a core part of any package room setup. Limiting entry to authorized users helps reduce loss and misuse, while still allowing convenient pickup.

Many properties secure package rooms using credential-based access or an intercom system at the entrance, often paired with video monitoring. According to guidance from ASIS International, the global association for security professionals, controlled access and visibility are foundational elements of modern physical security strategies.

Decide Between a Package Room and Package Lockers

Package lockers offer a highly automated experience but come with significantly higher upfront and ongoing costs. Entry-level locker systems typically range from $6,900 to $20,000, with costs increasing as additional units or larger locker banks are added.

A secured package room, by contrast, can deliver similar operational benefits at a much lower cost. Installing access control or an intercom at the package room entrance typically costs $1,500–$3,000 for hardware and installation, with a separate ongoing software subscription that generally ranges from $30–$300 per month depending on the number of access points and features enabled.

This approach also offers greater flexibility for oversized deliveries, volume spikes, and changing usage patterns over time.

Think About Scalability Over Time

Delivery volume rarely stays the same. A package room that works well in 2026 should be able to adapt as usage grows or changes.

Designing with scalability in mind, through adjustable storage, flexible layouts, and configurable access management, helps ensure the space continues to meet building needs without frequent redesigns or costly upgrades.

Top 4 Package Room Service Providers to Consider

With many package room service providers available today, it can be challenging to decide which one fits your building’s needs. Below are four commonly evaluated options, each with its own strengths and approaches to managing deliveries and package storage.

Swiftlane

Swiftlane uses video intercom calling and remote access grants to give property teams visibility and control over delivery access to package rooms and secured entry points. Video intercom calls can be received remotely on authorized mobile devices to visually verify package deliveries.

Swiftlane’s single-use PIN codes can be generated by tenants or property managers and distributed to delivery personnel via phone, email, or text. They can be configured to expire after use or within a defined time window. Multi-use PIN codes can be scheduled to restrict access on any day or time to ensure access isn’t granted when necessary.

Delivery and visitor access can be managed through Swiftlane’s cloud-based admin dashboard, which can be used to make changes to access remotely from anywhere.

Get instant pricing for your package room.

Luxer One

Luxer One’s package room solutions include Luxer Room, which turns existing spaces into organized, secured delivery hubs. The system offers an intuitive touchscreen interface and package management software compatible with a wide range of door strikes and electronic access hardware. Video surveillance can also be included for added security.

Parcel Pending

Parcel Pending offers both smart locker systems and package room solutions designed to help properties manage high delivery volumes efficiently. Its package room solution relies on access control integrations, package logging, and resident notifications to streamline deliveries and pickups.

Couriers scan and log packages upon entry, while residents receive alerts when items are ready for retrieval. Parcel Pending is often evaluated by larger residential communities seeking a scalable solution that combines software, hardware, and analytics for package management.

Hello Package

Hello Package extends the idea of package rooms beyond storage. Its system uses custom hardware, sensors, and machine learning to track deliveries and pickup activity. Couriers log packages using a touchscreen interface, with weight sensors and tracking to confirm when an item is placed and when it’s picked up. Residents receive notifications when their packages arrive, streamlining the pickup experience.

Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up a Package Room

There are several important points that property managers and residents should keep in mind to ensure the efficient and secure operation of these package rooms.

Lack of security measures: Implement strong access control systems, such as credential-based access (such as mobile credentials, PIN-based entry, or key fobs), to prevent unwanted access to the package room. Install security cameras to monitor the space and dissuade possible burglars.
Insufficient staffing: Having dedicated staff or property management personnel to oversee the package room can help maintain order, assist residents, and prevent package mishandling or theft.
Poor organization: Develop a clear and logical organization system. Label shelves or storage units for different apartments or residents to streamline package retrieval.
Poor channels of communication: Establish clear communication channels with residents regarding package procedures, rules, and notifications. A prompt alert system must be in place to notify residents when packages arrive via email or mobile app.
Ignoring package retrieval hours: Set specific hours for package retrieval. Residents should be encouraged to collect their packages promptly to free up space and prevent congestion.
Not adapting to technology: Adopt technologies for package management. Consider implementing biometric access control systems, package tracking software, or smart locker systems that accept mobile access credentials.
Neglecting package returns: Create a procedure for package returns or undesirable delivery. A designated area for returns can help residents manage packages they no longer desire or need.

Curious how access-controlled package rooms work in real buildings?

You can explore different approaches and tools to see what fits your delivery volume, space, and day-to-day operations. Book a demo today.

Let’s Wrap Up!

Setting up a package room is ultimately about creating a delivery process that works for everyone involved. As package volume continues to grow, having a dedicated, access-controlled space helps buildings stay organized, reduce confusion, and keep deliveries secure.

The most effective package rooms are designed around real usage. That means choosing the right location, planning for different package sizes, putting clear access controls in place so deliveries and pickups happen smoothly without adding extra work for staff.

A facility may use a simple access-controlled room, package lockers, or a managed package service, but careful planning makes a significant impact on a daily basis. A well-designed package room is more than just a storage area for deliveries; it also contributes to the building’s overall efficiency.

FAQs

Do all buildings need a package room in 2026?

Not every building needs a package room, but most multifamily and mixed-use properties with regular delivery volume will benefit from one. As e-commerce and same-day delivery continue to grow, package rooms help reduce front-desk congestion, prevent lost packages, and improve the resident experience.

For smaller properties, a compact package room or shared delivery space with access control may be sufficient.

How big should a package room be?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Package room size depends on the number of units, average daily deliveries, and how quickly residents pick up packages. A good rule of thumb is to design for peak delivery periods, such as holidays, and allow room for oversized packages.

Many properties also plan flexible shelving and overflow space so the room can scale as delivery volume increases.

How can buildings keep package rooms secure without adding staff workload?

Modern package rooms rely on technology rather than manual oversight. Access control systems, automated resident notifications, and video monitoring allow residents and carriers to use the space safely without constant staff involvement. Solutions from providers like Swiftlane help buildings maintain security and accountability while minimizing operational burden.

How To Set Up A Package Room In 2026

Key Takeaways

Table of Contents

What is a Package Room?