E-commerce businesses have thrived over the last decade as consumers prefer to shop online and receive packages at their doorstep. However, this added convenience isn’t all positive, as there’s been a rise in the number of delivery trucks on the roads, causing congestion and transport carbon emissions. In addition, emissions produced by idling vehicles are one of the leading causes of pollution. As a result, businesses are implementing more sustainable “last-mile” delivery as the world becomes more eco-friendly, and urban last-mile delivery emissions will increase by over 30% by 2030.
Consumers want convenience, and with a parcel locker, that convenience is literally at their fingertips. But unfortunately, very few consumers consider the environmental implications of having their packages delivered straight to their door. On the other hand, businesses have a far more significant challenge – having to figure out a way to deliver thousands or even millions of packages, managing their delivery time, logistics, and transport methodologies, and now, having to integrate sustainable methods in the process.
What is Last Mile Delivery?
Last-mile delivery is the final step of the delivery process from the warehouse shelf to when the package arrives at the consumer’s door. It is the most expensive and time-consuming part of the shipping process (up to 50% of the total shipping cost). Therefore, it focuses on delivering parcels to the consumers as fast as possible.
Parcel Lockers for Sustainability
The presence of delivery trucks has increased significantly over the last five years, with the increased volume of deliveries resulting from higher online sales. As a result, these vehicles are putting a consistent strain on our climate. More delivery vehicles mean higher emissions. Additionally, it also means more congestion resulting in higher idle times and even more emissions. So, the question that comes to mind is, how can we address this issue?
The answer is simple – automated parcel lockers. Parcel lockers help reduce the environmental damage and strain of greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the number of deliveries per stop and drastically lowering the number of failed deliveries. In other words, you don’t need to be home to receive a delivery as your package is delivered to an automated parcel locker. In addition, the reduction in the number of individual deliveries and re-deliveries will benefit the environment by reducing carbon emissions.
A ParcelPort Smart Locker with Display Screens
Retailers are always looking for new ways to attract and retain customers by differentiating themselves from the competition. Offering a more eco-friendly delivery option, like a parcel locker at checkout, provides an easy way to stand out from the competition. Further, these lockers give consumers a secure, private and convenient way to receive their shipments while eliminating missed deliveries and parcel theft.
The ParcelPort Solution
Here at ParcelPort, we’re passionate about a future that includes a network of Smart Parcel Lockers, given their potential to positively impact couriers, consumers, businesses, and our environment. Parcel lockers are a cleaner alternative that checks all the boxes. We manufacture our lockers locally with our proprietary software and complimentary services. We offer an affordable and practical parcel delivery solution for Commercial & Residential Property Managers and Builders, Retailers, and Parcel Couriers.
We are committed to continue making improvements to reduce our carbon footprint. The facility where our lockers are manufactured meets or exceeds local and federal emission standards. Further, all equipment used within the plant has evolved to incorporate innovative procedures and practices, reducing their environmental impact. For example, all powder coating used in the production is made from 100% recycled materials and provides superior product adherence. In addition, we use 100% recycled material in all shipping material used in transporting our parcel lockers.
If you’re looking for more information on how our Smart Parcel Lockers can help you or would just like to chat, give us a call at 1-800-818-0870 or e-mail us at info@theparcelport.com.