Lars Lubienetzki

November 17, 2025, 1:44 pm | Read time: 4 minutes

Adolph Franz Friedrich Ludwig Freiherr Knigge lived in the 18th century. The German writer is still known today for his principles of etiquette and behavior. The Knigge rules have since become synonymous with proper conduct in professional situations and everyday interactions. Referring to Knigge is therefore worthwhile when answering the question of until what time it is permissible to ring a neighbor’s doorbell to pick up a package left there.

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No Universal Rule

The German Knigge Council is based in Frielendorf, North Hesse. Jonathan Lösel serves as the council chairman and initially responds to myHOMEBOOK’s inquiry: “The question of how late you can ring a neighbor’s doorbell is much more than just a question of time. Anyone who considers this shows a great deal of tact, consideration, and mutual respect.”

Of course, there is no universal or even legally regulated time when it is still permissible to ring a neighbor’s doorbell, whether for a package or other reasons. As is often the case in life, it depends on your own neighborhood environment. Are you surrounded by families with small children or mostly young people who are currently in training or in the middle of their studies?

Nevertheless, even for the latter, the basic rule is: “Consideration comes first,” emphasizes Jonathan Lösel from the German Knigge Council, adding: “Evening is a time for relaxation: Families eat together, children are put to bed, shift workers prepare for the early morning. Between 6 and 8 p.m. is therefore a sensitive phase where you should carefully consider whether ringing the doorbell is really necessary.”

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Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It also depends on the day of the week. If things are still lively at a neighbor’s on a Friday or Saturday evening, you may exceptionally ring the doorbell until 9 p.m., says the Knigge expert. Anything after that is taboo.

“Special consideration is due on Sunday, a day of rest, relaxation, and encounter,” emphasizes Jonathan Lösel. “It is also legally protected as a day of pause and is culturally deeply rooted. Many families maintain traditions, live rituals, and consciously create spiritual moments. Respecting this shows an appreciation for cultural diversity and human needs.” So, it’s better to postpone ringing the doorbell on Sundays and holidays to the next working day.

In general, you should consciously perceive your fellow human beings. Far too often, people live past each other and therefore do not recognize whether a situation is appropriate or inappropriate. Those who sense their surroundings with all their senses already know when they can still ring the bell and when it’s better to wait until the next day, emphasizes Jonathan Lösel from the German Knigge Council.

Always Be Polite

No matter when you decide to ring a neighbor’s doorbell: “A brief apology, a friendly ‘I didn’t mean to disturb you,’ or the willingness to come back at a more suitable time are small gestures with a big impact,” underscores the Knigge expert.

Jonathan Lösel has a special tip, especially for avid online shoppers. “If you know that deliveries arrive frequently, you should talk to your neighbors in advance: ‘Would it be okay with you if the delivery person occasionally leaves a package with you?’ Such an agreement creates clarity and prevents misunderstandings.”

Even if the anticipation for the package’s contents is great, in case of doubt, it’s always the better option to press the doorbell at the neighbor’s apartment the next day. If impatience wins, you should always appear friendly and apologetic and accept a possibly closed door in the evening.