Pick-up boxes cannot be subject to the market rules

Pick-up boxes have become a common part of life in our cities and towns. In recent months, however, attempts have been made to regulate them through the so-called market rules. These efforts fail as they run up against the limits of the law. As a matter of fact, pick-up boxes are operated under the postal services regime and are not subject to the Trade Licensing Act. Expert opinions and case law are clear on this point.

 

The legal framework is clear: operating pick-up boxes is not a trade

In the context of the current discussion about using the so-called market rules to impose limits on pick-up boxes, we believe we should put the record straight when it comes to a fundamental legal fact: PPL Parcelboxes are subject to the postal services regime pursuant to Act No. 29/2000 Coll., on postal services, as amended, and the provisions of Section 18 of the Trade Licensing Act, on the basis of which municipalities may adopt the market rules, therefore, cannot be applied to them. 

This exact legal interpretation was confirmed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in its opinion of 15 January 2025, as well as by the Association for E-Commerce (APEK). The opinion makes it clear that the authority of municipalities to regulate off-premises services applies exclusively to activities covered by the Trade Licensing Act. Postal services, which include the operation of pick-up boxes, do not come under the scope of the law. 

 

We support legal certainty and sensible self-regulation

PPL Parcelboxes represent a modern and efficient form of delivery that increases the availability of parcels for residents in cities and smaller towns. Operating the pick-up boxes is fully aligned with Act No. 29/2000 Coll., on postal services, which is also corroborated by case law of the Supreme Administrative Court and the Court of Justice of the EU, which defines postal service as an activity involving the receipt, processing and delivery of shipments under a postal services contract.

Together with other pick-up box operators and APEK members, we view the need for clear, understandable and lawful rules. Therefore, we actively contribute to the drafting of self-regulatory measures, which will define a responsible approach to the selection of locations, design of the boxes and their integration into the public space.

 

Restricting boxes would harm citizens the most

The pick-up boxes are not a marginal service today; their use has become a common part of everyday life. According to a survey by Nielsen Admosphere in May this year, 72.2% of e-shoppers have used pick-up boxes at some point, 46.4% have found them to be the most common delivery option and 90% of the population would not agree with their abolition. A sudden reduction in the availability of these services could bring complications for millions of people across the country.

In addition, pick-up boxes contribute to reducing traffic burden in cities and help improve the comfort of citizens in towns that lack almost all amenities, including shops.  A properly positioned box can save dozens of individual delivery trips per day. Through sensible and smart planning, they deliver a solution that contributes to more sustainable logistics and greater well-being of residents.

 

PPL's transparent approach: clear rules, open dialogue 

At PPL, we value cooperation with cities and towns and are ready to engage in a partnership dialogue leading to the selection of suitable locations and ways to integrate the pick-up boxes into the public space. That is why we have published the Responsible PPL Parcelbox Placement Principles, which we follow when installing our boxes.

We are convinced that pick-up boxes can be a full-fledged part of the urban environment — if they are installed thoughtfully and with respect for their surroundings. At PPL, we believe that this approach may deliver a long-term sustainable solution that will benefit everyone — municipalities, residents and the carriers themselves.

Any concerns over pick-up boxes? Write to us; we are here to help you!