The parcel shelf sits horizontally behind the rear passenger seats, primarily in hatchbacks, station wagons, and sedans. In a sedan, it is a fixed structural panel that often houses rear speakers and the third brake light. In hatchbacks and SUVs, it is usually a removable cover that hides cargo from view and pivots upward when the liftgate opens.
Heard on the job
The rear speakers are rattling against the parcel shelf whenever the bass hits.
Also heard as
- package tray
- cargo cover
- tonneau cover