How Automated Parcel Lockers with 24/7 Access Improve Carrier Services

As e-commerce continues to grow, so does the need for reliable and efficient delivery services. Automated parcel lockers have emerged as a promising solution that improves carrier services by providing secure and convenient delivery options for customers.

When placed in accessible locations, automated parcel lockers are self-service kiosks that allow customers to pick up or drop off their packages at any time of the day or night. These lockers are usually located in high-traffic areas such as transport hubs, outside local community stores, office buildings, and retail parks, making them easily accessible to customers.  Recent data from Parcel Pending by Quadient revealed that 40% of locker activity is outside of the core 9-5, with parcels even being dropped off by consumers at 2am, showing there is a demand for that convenience.

One of the main benefits of automated parcel lockers is that they eliminate the need for customers to be present at home to receive their packages. This means that carriers can deliver packages to the lockers at any time, and customers can pick up their packages at their convenience. This saves carriers time and resources by reducing the number of unsuccessful delivery attempts and the need for redeliveries.

With 35% of UK consumers more worried about parcel theft now, many are looking for more secure delivery methods. Automated parcel lockers improve security by providing a secure and controlled environment for package delivery and pick up. Customers must enter a unique code or scan a barcode to access their locker, ensuring that only the intended recipient can retrieve the package. This reduces the risk of package theft and increases customer satisfaction.

Automated parcel lockers can help carriers to lower operational costs by up to 50% by consolidating parcel delivery and collections. Instead of delivering to individual addresses, multiple deliveries can be consolidated into a single local locker. The same is true for collections as well. With Parcel Pending by Quadient’s Drop Box Locker, collections become even more convenient. One locker can hold multiple packages for one carrier partner, and delivery agents do not have to open as many locker doors during their collection round.

An automated parcel locker that includes a built-in printer can improve carrier services even more. Since consumers are able to print out and attach shipping labels right at the locker before depositing their parcel, the onus is taken off the delivery agent, and speeds up the delivery process.

Moreover, automated parcel lockers provide carriers with real-time data on package delivery and pick up. This data can help carriers optimise their delivery routes, improve package tracking, and better manage their resources. This ultimately leads to more efficient and cost-effective carrier services.

Automated parcel lockers with 24/7 access are a game-changer for carrier services. They provide a secure and convenient delivery option for customers, reduce the number of unsuccessful delivery attempts, improve package security, and provide valuable data for carriers to optimise their operations. As e-commerce continues to grow, automated parcel lockers will become an essential tool for carriers to provide reliable and efficient delivery services.

Quadient’s Open Locker Network already features key players such as Royal Mail, Evri, DPD and UPS. The outdoor and indoor Open Locker Network allows consumers to send, return and pick up parcels at a time that suits them. The network includes Quadient’s award-winning Parcel Pending Drop Box lockers with built-in label printers, that allow consumers to easily ship merchandise returns and other parcels without needing access to a printer at home.

To learn more visit: parcelpending.com/en-gb/markets/carriers.