You’ve decided to automate your package delivery to handle your mailroom chaos. Excellent choice. Now it’s time to choose which system is right for you.
You’ll probably be meeting with several sales reps, so we put together this article as a quick read on some things to look for as you learn about the different package management systems available. Take a spin through it now, and then bookmark it so you can use it as a checklist later.
Cost
With the price tag of a full package management system in the thousands, cost is undoubtedly one of the biggest factors in your decision. As you assess this factor, remember that investing in a package management system isn’t like buying a pair of shoes. You need to look beyond the upfront purchase price to the total cost of ownership. What you’ll find is that some systems have fees in unexpected places.
Here’s where to look:
- Hardware
- Technical support
- Tenant registration fees
- Locker storage fees
- Shipping and installation
Once you have a full understanding of the cost of a system, you can compare it to the cost of the time your staff currently spends dealing with deliveries. Don’t forget that smart lockers add value to your property. That means you may be able to increase rents to help cover the costs. Win-win-win.
Security
Hell hath no fury like a tenant whose package went missing! Make sure you’re getting the highest level of security by investigating these features:
- Access on the courier, administrator, and user level
- Hardware durability
- Chain of custody recording
No one can afford to leave package security to chance. 49% of online shoppers will order an item that is $500 or more to be delivered.
Technical support
Package management technology is pretty amazing. And just like anything else, it requires updates and other routine maintenance.
All suppliers provide technical support. What you need to look out for is what kind: on-site or remote.
Clearly, if there’s a problem that requires a technician on-site, you need to be sure you can get someone out to your property. But not every problem requires an on-site visit. Many technical issues can be fixed remotely — online or over the phone. To save money (and hassle), make sure your supplier offers remote support as well.
Apps
When people think of smart home technology, they usually focus on thermostats and security systems that can be managed from their phone. Package management systems can be smart, too, by offering apps that staff and tenants can use to manage the delivery process.
Look for apps that are intuitive and user-friendly. If possible, have your users give the apps a try to make sure they’re happy before you invest in a complete system.
86% of Millennials are willing to spend more money to rent a place with smart home technology already implemented.
Reporting tools
If you can’t tell exactly how many packages are going through your system, it will be difficult to calculate how efficient your operations are. Look for a package delivery solution that has reporting options to tell you how many packages are getting delivered and how long they’re staying in lockers. The data will help you make decisions like whether you need to change your locker configuration or set up email reminders.
Flexibility and functionality
Do you have a completely open floor plan? How about unlimited space? Of course you don’t. So, it’s important that you pick a parcel locker system that is customizable for your space.
Also, be clear on what the lockers require to operate. Do they have to be hard-wired to a network? Do they rely on WiFi? Do they use a cellular network? Make sure that whatever the lockers need is easily accessible.
Energy efficiency
According to the EPA, green infrastructure can increase a community’s property value. In fact, 66% of Millennials are willing to pay more for sustainable offerings. Choosing an energy-efficient package management system is one way you can boost your sustainability.
Smiota offers secure, flexible, and efficient package management solutions. Check out this article for more info.