What Is a Relay Point?

A relay point (or "point relais" in French) is a local business — such as a convenience store, tobacconist, dry cleaner, or supermarket — that has partnered with a carrier to act as a parcel collection and drop-off location. Networks like Mondial Relay operate thousands of these across France and Europe.

How to Find a Relay Point Near You

Option 1: Use the Carrier's Official Locator Tool

Most carriers offer an interactive map on their website where you can search for nearby relay points by entering your postcode or town. For Mondial Relay, visit their official website and use the relay point finder, which shows all nearby locations with opening hours, distance, and amenities.

Option 2: Use the Map at Checkout

When shopping on an e-commerce site that offers relay point delivery, the checkout process usually includes an embedded map where you can browse and select your preferred collection point before confirming your order.

Option 3: Use a Mobile App

Many carriers have dedicated smartphone apps that use your device's GPS to locate the closest relay points in real time. This is especially handy when you're on the move or want to check options near your workplace rather than your home.

What to Look for When Choosing a Relay Point

  • Opening hours: Look for a relay point that's open when you can realistically visit — some shops open early or on Sundays, which is a major advantage.
  • Distance from home or work: Choose a point within a short walking or driving distance to minimise effort at collection time.
  • Parcel size limits: Not all relay points accept large or heavy parcels. Always check the maximum dimensions and weight for your chosen location.
  • Storage capacity: Busier relay points may run out of storage space during peak periods. Smaller or less frequented ones tend to be more reliable.
  • Type of business: Some people prefer relay points inside supermarkets (longer hours, easy parking) while others prefer quiet local shops with short queues.

How Many Relay Points Are There?

Mondial Relay alone operates over 30,000 relay points across Europe, with strong coverage in France, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Other networks such as Colissimo Relais, DPD Pickup, and UPS Access Points add many more options, meaning most urban and suburban areas have a wide choice of collection points.

Can You Change Your Relay Point After Ordering?

In some cases, yes. Depending on the carrier and how far along the parcel is in transit, you may be able to redirect your delivery to a different relay point. This is typically done through the carrier's app or website using your tracking number. However, this is not always guaranteed — so it's best to choose your relay point carefully at the time of checkout.

What If the Relay Point Is Closed or Has Moved?

Relay points occasionally close or change their hours. If you arrive and the point appears to be closed or no longer operating, contact the carrier's customer service immediately with your tracking number. They can advise on next steps, which may include redirecting the parcel to another location or arranging redelivery.

Summary

Finding a relay point is simple using online tools, maps at checkout, or mobile apps. The key is to choose a point that matches your schedule, is close to your daily route, and can accommodate the size of your parcel. A little planning at checkout saves time and hassle later.