Having a secure place to receive deliveries when you’re not home can be very convenient. A parcel drop box allows couriers to leave packages safely on your property when you’re out. With some simple materials and basic tools, you can make your own parcel drop box for a fraction of the cost of buying one.
Page Contents
- 1 What are the benefits of having a parcel drop box?
- 2 What do I need to make a parcel drop box?
- 3 How do I build the drop box frame?
- 4 How do I make the lid weatherproof?
- 5 How do I install the latch and lock?
- 6 Where should I place the drop box?
- 7 How do I add reflective markings?
- 8 How can I personalize the parcel box?
- 9 What are some optional extras?
- 10 How can I maintain the drop box?
- 11 Conclusion
What are the benefits of having a parcel drop box?
A parcel drop box offers several advantages:
- Security – Packages are kept safe from theft and weather damage.
- Convenience – No more missed deliveries or trips to the post office to collect parcels.
- Privacy – Parcels are kept out of public view.
- Accessibility – Couriers can deliver at any time, even when you’re not home.
Having a secure drop point means you don’t have to worry about missed deliveries or parcels left in insecure locations. The delivery driver can quickly leave the package in your drop box and move on to their next delivery.
What do I need to make a parcel drop box?
Making a home parcel box is an easy DIY project. You’ll need:
- Plywood or weatherproof material – To build the box frame.
- Nails or screws
- Saw – To cut the wood.
- Drill with various drill bits
- Sandpaper – To smooth rough edges.
- Exterior paint or varnish – For weatherproofing.
- Waterproof sealant – To seal the lid.
- Hinges – For the lid.
- Lock or latch
- Corner braces – For reinforcement.
- Reflective house numbers or address plaque
Plywood is inexpensive and easy to work with. Make sure to use exterior grade, water-resistant plywood. Treated lumber or plastic boxes also work well.
For the most secure parcel box, use sturdy materials and hardware designed for outdoor use.
How do I build the drop box frame?
Start by cutting plywood pieces to size according to your preferred dimensions. The internal dimensions of the box should be at least 16″ x 16″ x 16″ to accommodate most standard packages and parcels.
Cut plywood into rectangular panels for the sides, bottom, back, and front of the box. The height of the side panels determines the depth of the box.
Pre-drill holes at the corners to insert nails or screws to hold the frame together. Construct a three-sided box by attaching the side, bottom, and back panels together.
Then attach the front panel with hinges along one long side so it can function as a lid. Use corner braces on the inside corners for reinforcement.
Seal any gaps in the wood frame with exterior caulk. Allow time for the glue to dry completely before the next steps.
Tips for a sturdy frame
- Use plywood at least 1/2″ thick for durability.
- Apply wood glue before nailing or screwing pieces together.
- Drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
- Use galvanized or stainless steel nails/screws to resist rust.
The framed parcel box should now be taking shape. Make sure the build feels robust by shaking it gently.
How do I make the lid weatherproof?
It’s important to seal the lid so that rain, snow, and moisture can’t get into the parcel drop box. Here are some tips:
- Apply silicone caulk around the edges of the lid where it meets the box.
- Attach weatherstripping tape or foam around the lip of the box opening.
- Install a waterproof hinge designed for outdoor use.
- Add rubber bumpers on the underside of lid to create a tight seal when closed.
- Apply several coats of exterior varnish or polyurethane to the wood lid.
For added protection, you could optionally line the inside of the box with a water-resistant material like outdoor-grade vinyl, laminate, or even a heavy plastic bag.
Make sure the waterproofing measures don’t interfere with the lid opening and closing properly. Test the lid seal by closing the lid on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out easily, the seal needs to be tighter.
How do I install the latch and lock?
The latch and lock mechanisms are vital for keeping your dropped parcels secure. Here are some options:
Latch
Install a basic latch or hasp on the lid and box to keep it closed. Use weatherproof exterior grade latches and hardware. Make sure any screws go into solid wood, not just the plywood edges.
Lock
For better security, add a padlock on the latch. A combination lock avoids having to keep track of keys. Go for stainless steel materials resistant to the elements.
Smart lock
For high-tech access control, install a remotely operable smart lock. These connect to WiFi and allow you to control the lock with your smartphone, granting access to specific courier companies or delivery dates.
Lock box
Instead of cutting into your parcel box, you can add a small lock box beside it. The courier puts the key inside the lock box, which you can open with your own key. Just make sure to retrieve the key and lock it back up afterwards.
Where should I place the drop box?
The ideal location depends on your property layout and access points:
- Near your front door, but still visibly outside your home.
- Adjacent to the driveway if couriers enter through your front gate.
- Discreetly behind bushes or exterior walls, keeping it out of direct public view.
- Under an overhang or porch to keep it sheltered from the rain.
- Raised slightly off the ground on a stand or bricks to avoid water damage.
Make sure to:
- Choose a spot convenient for couriers to access without obstruction.
- Keep it clear of sprinklers and away from direct sunlight/heat sources.
- Ensure it’s safely supported and won’t tip over.
- Allow enough room for opening the lid fully.
If you have multiple delivery services, it’s smart to install two boxes side-by-side.
How do I add reflective markings?
To make your parcel drop box highly visible for delivery drivers:
- Stencil or stick your house address number on the front.
- Add hi-vis reflective tape on and around the box.
- Paint the inside of the box white to reflect light.
- Install a solar powered exterior light above the box.
- Add house numbers that illuminate at night.
You want couriers to be able to identify the right box easily, both day and night. Just make sure any electrical components are exterior rated and connected properly.
How can I personalize the parcel box?
Personalizing your homemade drop box makes it both stylish and functional:
- Paint or stain the wood an attractive color.
- Stencil your house name/number or fun artwork on the box sides.
- Install flower boxes or planters on top or around the box.
- Attach bamboo strips along the sides for a natural look.
- Use decorative exterior hardware like handles or hinge straps.
Let your personality shine through while still maintaining the structural integrity and weather sealing. The box should reflect the style of your home for curb appeal.
What are some optional extras?
To take your parcel drop box to the next level, consider these add-ons:
Motion sensor light
Illuminates when couriers approach at night for easy access.
Video doorbell
Keep an eye on deliveries with a smart doorbell/camera trained on the box.
Digital scale
Weigh packages as they arrive to verify correct postage.
Smart locker
Electronically controlled compartments for separate deliveries.
Cooling fan
Prevent heat damage in hot climates.
Heater
Avoid freezing in cold temperatures.
WiFi updates
Receive notifications when a delivery arrives.
Drop light
LED strip lights to illuminate inside the box.
Solar panel
For powering electronic components.
Get creative with technology to make yours unique! Just balance added complexity with reliability and maintenance.
How can I maintain the drop box?
Regular inspection and upkeep will keep your home parcel box looking great and weatherproof:
- Check for damage to wood, paint, or hardware – repair promptly.
- Re-apply weatherproofing sealants if worn.
- Oil hinges to prevent rust and squeaking.
- Make sure the drainage holes at the bottom are clear.
- Refresh reflective markings as needed.
- Keep the box interior clear of debris.
- Consider repainting every 2-3 years.
For smart components and electronics, replace batteries and check connections periodically.
Have a maintenance schedule, like checking the box each season. Act quickly on any issues before they worsen. Your parcel box should provide years of reliable service.
Conclusion
Installing your own custom parcel drop box is a straightforward DIY project. Follow basic woodworking techniques and use exterior grade materials for a long-lasting weatherproof box. Decide if you want simple or high-tech access. Strategically placing your box and adding reflective details will ensure couriers can easily locate the drop-off point. Personalize it to complement your home’s aesthetics. Maintain the box properly and your deliveries will stay safely out of sight until you retrieve them. Enjoy the convenience of secure, accessible package deliveries, any time of the day or night.