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A parcel normally stays for 7 days at a pickup point for PostNord, DHL, Bring and UPS in Sweden. At DSV (formerly DB Schenker) the storage time is 14 days, while parcel lockers such as Instabox keep parcels for a shorter time. If you do not collect the parcel in time, it is returned to the sender. Below we go through what applies to each carrier, how to extend the storage time and what happens if a parcel is not collected.
How long each carrier keeps your parcel
The storage time starts on the day the parcel arrives and you receive a delivery notification by text message, email or app. The times below are the carriers' standard terms for domestic parcels in Sweden.
- PostNord: 7 days at pickup points and in PostNord parcel boxes. You can extend to 14 days for a fee via the link in the text message or in the PostNord app. Track PostNord
- DHL: 7 days at DHL Service Point. It is currently not possible to extend the storage time. Track DHL
- Bring: 7 days at the pickup point. In some cases you can extend to 14 days. Track Bring
- DSV (formerly DB Schenker): 14 days at pickup points, unless the sender has agreed otherwise. Track DSV
- UPS: 7 calendar days at a UPS Access Point. After that, the parcel is sent back to the sender. Track UPS
- Instabox: 3 days in the locker. You can extend by another 3 days via the tracking link or the Instabox app.
If the sender has its own agreement with the carrier, the storage time may differ from the standard terms. What your notification says always takes precedence over the list above.
Can you extend the storage time?
It depends on the carrier. With PostNord you do it yourself for a fee, and Bring sometimes offers the same option. DHL Service Point does not offer extensions, and for Instabox you extend directly in the app.
If you cannot extend it yourself, contact the sender as soon as possible. The sender has the agreement with the carrier and can request an extension or a redirection.
What happens if you do not collect the parcel?
When the storage time has expired, the carrier collects the parcel and returns it to the sender. Pickup points have limited space, so returns usually happen on the return date itself. The parcel can then no longer be collected, even if you can still see it on the shelf.
The return shipping is invoiced to the sender, and many online stores in turn charge you a fee for uncollected parcels. Also note that leaving a parcel uncollected does not automatically count as cancelling the purchase. If you want to cancel, notify the seller.
What is a pickup point?
A pickup point, also called a service point or parcel agent, is a shop, supermarket or petrol station that receives and hands out parcels on behalf of a carrier. All major carriers have their own networks: PostNord, DHL Service Point, Bring, DSV and UPS Access Point. Many carriers also have parcel boxes or lockers that are open around the clock.
To collect a parcel you usually need valid ID and the parcel code or consignment ID from the notification. If someone else collects it for you, they normally need to show both their own ID and yours.
DB Schenker is now DSV
DSV acquired DB Schenker in 2025, and in Sweden the businesses have merged under the DSV name. Parcels that used to go to Schenker pickup points are now delivered to DSV pickup points, and the storage time is still 14 days. If you have an old Schenker consignment number, you can track the shipment with DSV.
Tips so you do not miss your parcel
- Collect the parcel the same day or the day after you receive the notification.
- Follow the parcel with the tracking link so you know when it has arrived.
- Check the pickup point's opening hours before you go.
- If you will be away, extend the storage time straight away or contact the sender.
- Avoid the afternoon rush if you want to skip the queue.
If you send parcels
As a sender, your choice of freight service affects how long your customers have to collect their parcels, and therefore how many parcels come back as returns. Longer storage times and clear tracking emails reduce the number of uncollected parcels. Shiplink is a freight platform where businesses can compare and book freight services from multiple carriers. Read more about how to send parcels to a pickup point.
The storage times in this article are based on the carriers' standard terms in autumn 2026 and may change. Always check the notification for your specific parcel.
Photo: Pontus Lundahl / TT
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