LittleBird Blog

The Rise of Apartment Package Lockers

Written by Tiffany Johnson | Jun 5, 2023 7:47:50 PM

As the popularity of online shopping continues to soar, multifamily communities are grappling with the challenge of efficiently managing a growing influx of packages. 

Fortunately, the emergence of apartment package lockers has revolutionized how deliveries are handled, offering a convenient and secure solution for residents and property managers. 

In this article, we will explore the concept of apartment package lockers, their functionality, benefits, and a couple of questions to consider when choosing between lockers and package rooms. Last but not least, we’ll highlight some of the best package locker systems available for apartments.

But first things first...

What is an apartment package locker?

An apartment package locker is a secure storage unit specifically designed for receiving and holding packages delivered to multifamily residential buildings. 

These lockers serve as a centralized point for delivery personnel to drop off packages, ensuring safe storage until residents retrieve them. 

Package lockers typically consist of multiple compartments and are accessible through a unique access code or mobile app.

Without a package delivery system: 

If an apartment complex does not have a package locker system in place, managing package deliveries can become more challenging for both property managers and residents.

Here are some potential scenarios that may occur:

  • Limited Security: Without a designated storage area, packages may be left unattended in common areas such as lobbies or hallways. This increases the risk of packages being misplaced, damaged, or even stolen.
  • Increased Staff Workload: Property management staff may have to manually receive, sort, and store packages for residents. This can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, taking valuable resources away from other essential tasks. 
  • Inconvenience for Residents: Without a package locker, residents may need to coordinate with property management or make arrangements to be present during delivery hours to receive their packages. It may also require additional communication and coordination with delivery services, adding complexity to the process.

🐥 Don’t have the space for a package locker yet? Keep residents in the loop about when the mail has been delivered for the day through automated notifications in the LittleBird Living app. 

How does an apartment package locker work?

Apartment package lockers operate through a streamlined and efficient process as easy as 1…2…3. 

  1. Delivery Notification: When a package arrives at the building's delivery area, the property staff receives a notification. The package is then placed inside a designated locker compartment.
  2. Resident Notification: Once the package is securely stored in the locker, residents receive a notification via email or mobile app. The message includes details such as the locker number, access code, and instructions for retrieving their package.
  3. Package Retrieval: Residents can visit the package locker area at their convenience. They enter their unique access code or scan a QR code provided in the notification to open the assigned locker compartment. The package is collected, and the locker is ready for the next delivery.

What are the benefits of package lockers for buildings?

Implementing apartment package lockers brings several advantages for both property managers and residents:

Convenience

Package lockers offer residents the flexibility to collect their parcels at any time, eliminating the need to rush home or rearrange schedules for deliveries. 

Enhanced Security

Package lockers provide a secure storage solution, minimizing the risk of theft or damage to delivered packages. Lockers are typically constructed with durable materials and equipped with advanced security features like surveillance cameras and secure access codes, ensuring the safety of residents' belongings.

Efficient Package Management

Package lockers streamline the package management process for property managers. Staff no longer need to manually handle and store individual packages, reducing the risk of misplacement or mix-ups. This efficiency allows property managers to allocate their time and resources to other essential tasks.

Reduced Package Overflow

Apartment package lockers help prevent package overflow in communal areas such as lobbies or hallways. By providing designated storage compartments, lockers eliminate clutter and maintain an organized appearance within the building.

 

The best package locker systems for apartments

Luxer One

Luxer One is a leading provider of package management solutions that leverage advanced technology to streamline the delivery and retrieval process for packages delivered from various carriers, including major shipping companies and local couriers.

Amazon Hub

The Amazon Hub package locker system works in a straightforward manner.

When a customer places an order on Amazon and selects the delivery option for an Amazon Hub locker, their package is shipped to the specified locker location instead of their home address. Once the package arrives at the locker, the customer receives a unique pickup code or barcode via email or text message.

Amazon Hub lockers are available for package pickup 24/7, providing flexibility and convenience to customers who may not be available at home during typical delivery hours.

Parcel Pending

Parcel Pending specializes in customizable package locker solutions, catering to the unique needs of each apartment community. Their lockers offer secure storage, along with user-friendly interfaces for effortless package retrieval.

Parcel Pending also offers additional features and services to enhance the package management experience. These may include integration with popular carrier systems, mobile apps for convenient access and notifications, and advanced analytics to track package data and trends.

What to consider when choosing between a package locker and a package room?

When deciding between a package locker system and a package room for your apartment building, consider the following factors:

  • Space Availability: Evaluate the available space in your building. Package rooms require a dedicated room or area, while lockers can be installed in smaller spaces, such as a hallway or lobby. Assess your building layout and choose the option that optimizes space utilization.
  • Package Volume: Determine the average package volume your building receives. If your building experiences a high volume of deliveries, package lockers may be more suitable, as they offer individual compartments for each resident and can handle a larger number of packages efficiently.
  • Resident Convenience: Consider the convenience factor for your residents. Package lockers provide residents with 24/7 access to their packages, while package rooms may have restricted access hours. Assess your residents' needs and preferences to ensure maximum convenience.

Final Thoughts… 

  • Apartment package lockers have emerged as a game-changer in the realm of package management for multifamily residential buildings. 
  • Offering convenience, enhanced security, and efficient package handling, these lockers alleviate the burden on property managers while providing residents with a seamless and stress-free package retrieval experience. 
  • When choosing between a package locker system and a package room, consider factors such as space availability, package volume, and resident convenience to make an informed decision. 
  • By embracing the best package locker systems available, apartment communities can optimize package management, leaving both residents and property managers satisfied.