It seems like a smart shortcut. You pull the next three or four parcels out of the back and stack them on the passenger seat so you can grab them through the side door instead of walking around to the cargo area every time. Some drivers pile the footwell, the seat, and even the dashboard with parcels for quick access. And yes, it saves time. But it creates genuine safety issues that most drivers don't think about until something goes wrong.
The Safety Problems
Projectile risk in a crash. An unsecured parcel on the passenger seat becomes a projectile in a sudden stop or collision. Even a 3kg box hitting you at 60km/h generates significant force. A stack of parcels sliding off the seat and into your legs while driving can cause you to lose control. According to Queensland Government load restraint information, all loads must be properly restrained to prevent movement during braking or collision.
Airbag interference. Parcels stacked on or near the passenger seat can interfere with airbag deployment. If the passenger airbag deploys into a stack of boxes, it fires the boxes into the cabin — turning them into shrapnel. Some vehicles have weight sensors that detect objects on the passenger seat and may activate the airbag in a crash, launching whatever is sitting there directly at you.
Visibility. Parcels stacked on the passenger seat and footwell can obstruct your view of the left-side mirror and the left blind spot. If boxes are piled high, you can't see pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles approaching from the left when turning or changing lanes.
Distraction. Parcels sliding off the seat while driving is distracting. Reaching across to stop them falling, or bending to pick one up off the floor while moving, takes your eyes off the road. Even a second of distraction at 50km/h means travelling 14 metres blind.
Better Alternatives
Bulkhead shelf or caddy. Many delivery vans have a shelf behind the driver's seat or a caddy system designed for staging the next few deliveries. Use it — that's what it's for. It keeps parcels accessible without putting them in the cabin.
Side door staging. If your van has a sliding side door, stage the next 3–4 parcels just inside it in order. You open the door, grab the next one, and go. No need to walk around to the back, and nothing is in the cabin.
Small satchel bag. For runs with lots of small satchels and mailers, a canvas tote bag on the passenger floor (secured so it won't slide) works well. It's contained, low-profile, and doesn't obstruct visibility or airbags.
If you must use the passenger seat: Keep it to one or two small, light parcels maximum. Never stack higher than the seat back. Never put anything on the dashboard. And secure them so they can't slide — a non-slip mat or seatbelt across the stack helps.