Secure and smart: Exploring the technology behind modern Parcel Lockers
Ever wondered how Parcel Lockers work? Find out what technology they use to keep your purchases safe.
Parcel Lockers appeared relatively recently, but have already become firmly established in our lives. They have made the process of sending and receiving mail, goods ordered in online stores, documents and much more more convenient.
However, you don’t even realize how complex these devices are; they use a lot of modern technologies, and we will talk about them in this article.
What technologies do automated boxes use?
Modern self-service Parcel Lockers use a number of technologies so that you don’t have any questions when working with them:
- Barcode technologies. Each package and product can be equipped with a unique barcode, which is read using a scanner to track and process packages.
- RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification). Modern Parcel Lockers can use RFID tags to identify and track packages. This technology allows contactless data transfer using radio frequencies.
- Electronic locks and sensors. To ensure the security of parcels, electronic locks and sensors can be installed in mail lockers that control access to parcel storage compartments.
- Internet technologies. Each box in the network is usually connected to the Internet to exchange data with the central control system, as well as to notify users about the arrival of packages.
- Control systems and software. Parcel Lockers are equipped with special software and management systems that manage the process of receiving, storing and issuing parcels.
- CCTV cameras. Some automated lockers – both outdoor and indoor – can be equipped with CCTV cameras to ensure security and monitor the processing of parcels.
Safety of using Parcel Lockers
The main emphasis is placed on it, because it is an autonomous device, and you cannot assign a guard to every locker. Therefore, self-service boxes have a number of characteristics that directly affect the safety of the container:
- Electronic locks and code systems. To access Parcel Locker cells, the user uses a unique code or QR code that is provided when sending the parcel. This allows you to effectively control access and prevent unauthorized access to parcels.
- Video surveillance. Installing CCTV cameras around and inside Parcel Locker provides visual control over the process of use and allows you to record events related to postal operations.
- Anti-vandal measures. Mail lockers are constructed using vandal-resistant materials and mechanisms to prevent damage or tampering.
- Alarm systems. In the event of a break-in attempt or other untoward events, Parcel Lockers are equipped with alarm systems that can activate emergency procedures or alert security services.
- Data encryption. Parcel and transaction data is encrypted to prevent unauthorized access to confidential information.
- Regular checks and maintenance. Maintenance checks and maintenance ensure the Parcel Locker’s electronic and mechanical components are operating correctly and identify potential safety issues.
- Access control. Mail service operators have access to the device management system and can monitor its operation, which also helps ensure security.
With Parcel Lockers you can be sure that your parcel will not be received by anyone else with whom you have not shared information about its receipt. In turn, what awaits you in the cell is under constant surveillance.
