Kiosk technology has adapted to meet the ever-changing demands of businesses. Given the recent change in how companies store packages, locker kiosks have become very popular. Like regular kiosks, these machines can be operated by a single individual.
Yet, the underlying technology behind these kinds of kiosk machines ensures safety, smooth delivery, and other benefits for companies that use them. This article is a guide to locker kiosks that will improve your understanding of them and how to use them in your company.
Types of Locker Kiosks
As expected, there are multiple types of locker kiosks. These variations have been created in line with different company demands. Some of the most common locker kiosks include:
Smart Locker
A smart locker is a storage system that relies on Internet of Things (IoT) technology to enable companies to store items securely and efficiently. Smart lockers also help businesses collect information like the usage of items stored in them.
Some smart lockers might come with contactless options that allow users to operate them from the comfort of a phone. Due to their versatility, smart lockers are very common in many industries, ranging from food to construction companies. This is unlike some other locker kiosks that have a limited range of services.
Parcel Lockers
Companies can use parcel lockers for package drop-off and collection. Like most kiosk machines, people operate them from a screen. They usually feature a barcode. Companies can also use parcel lockers to deliver items from online shopping. When a company fulfills a customer order, it can deliver items to a parcel locker and generate a storage code.
When done, the parcel locker system sends out a message to the recipient that the package is ready for pickup. The recipient will then input the barcode, which opens the box and delivers the package. Some parcel lockers can be integrated with multiple delivery service companies like FedEx, UPS, and AliExpress.
Employee Lockers
Employee lockers are a type of kiosk used to store the personal belongings of workers. Such lockers have gained popularity due to their space-saving benefits. Employee lockers come in different styles.
These include wooden, plastic, metal, and cell phone lockers. One benefit of using employee lockers is that it reduces the chance of lost, stolen, or damaged personal property in the workplace.
Rental Lockers
Rental lockers are a cost-saving solution for many businesses. Such lockers allow companies to reduce expenses by leasing lockers from trusted suppliers. These lockers are managed by a central company that gives out access codes to users. They are employed in shared office environments and co-working spaces.
Food Lockers
This type of storage solution is ideal for businesses in the food industry. Food lockers are storage units designed to protect food items before delivery. These lockers stand out as they are designed to store food properly.
This means that these lockers usually keep food at optimal temperatures. Like other lockers used for delivery, food lockers come with unique access or QR codes sent to the recipient once the food is delivered.
Also, due to their rising popularity, many nutrition companies give customers the option of having their meals delivered to food lockers. These kiosk machines can help businesses save money on deliveries as they can store multiple packages delivered by a single driver.
Library Lockers
Libraries also use locker kiosks for multiple purposes. For instance, libraries use locker kiosks to store special collections. Some of these lockers might be self-service models that grant users 24-hour access.
Some libraries also use these lockers at entrances, giving users a space to store belongings that are not allowed in the library. For instance, food and beverage items. Special item locker kiosks for libraries might come with a barcode scanner, as they can dispense rented books.
Customer Lockers
This type of locker is used in stores, hospitals, and businesses that might need customers to store particular items at the door.
For instance, some malls might acquire customer lockers to allow users to store bags and food items outside. Customer lockers should offer easy convenience. For this reason, most customer lockers have a simple design with a lock and key system.
Asset Management Lockers
Some companies also use locker kiosks in managing assets, which are at risk of damage if not kept specially. For instance, construction companies might store tools in locker kiosks, thus keeping them more secure.
Usually, employees need a card or a barcode to access materials stored in kiosks. This helps the company to track the regular usage of these materials. It also reduces the risk of damage.
Advantages of Locker Kiosks
There are multiple benefits to using locker kiosks in your business. The main benefits include:
Contactless Pickup and Delivery
Contactless pickup and delivery can be automated and made easier by using locker kiosks. After COVID, many business sectors, including the food and nutrition industry, have placed more emphasis on end-to-end sanitation. As a result, there is a greater demand for contactless delivery.
Efficient and Highly Secure Storage
The secure storage of items increases when locker kiosks are used. Many companies can reduce the incidence of damage by using lockers to store items. Furthermore, it also reduces theft incidences among many businesses.
Customizable Solutions for Different Industries
Many locker kiosks are customizable. This allows them to serve multiple business needs. Furthermore, they might also come with a rental option, which reduces the financial barrier to employing locker kiosks.
Improved Customer Experience
The ease of food and item delivery enabled by locker kiosks has increased customer satisfaction for many businesses. It has also increased employee satisfaction due to the safety and security of their items.
Industries That Can Benefit from Locker Kiosks
Now, you might be thinking about getting a locker kiosk, but you aren’t sure if you need it. Here, I will cover industries that have benefited from using locker kiosks.
Retail Industry
There are multiple uses of locker kiosks in the retail industry. Stores and malls can use customer kiosks to help users store items for retrieval at the end of their shopping experience. They can also use parcel lockers to ease the delivery of goods to users. Finally, smart lockers can store keys and other sensitive items.
Residential/Apartment Buildings
Residential buildings can also use kiosk lockers for various purposes. For instance, these apartments can use smart lockers to deliver mail and other items to their residents. They can also use locker kiosks to store lost and found items, thus offering convenience and safety.
Schools/Universities
Educational centers can also benefit immensely from the provision of kiosk lockers. For instance, libraries can use lockers to store materials like antique books. Schools can also use employee lockers to store items belonging to staff or teachers. Finally, the school administration can use smart lockers to house sensitive documents.
Office/Workplaces
As expected, locker kiosks are used by many businesses for different purposes. For instance, storing work materials can be done using locker kiosks, thus ensuring their safety. Employee lockers are also common at many companies as they offer a safer way to store items belonging to workers.
Hospitality
The hospitality sector can also benefit immensely from the use of locker kiosks. For instance, food lockers can ease the delivery of meals to customers. Companies in the hospitality sector can also use parcel lockers to allow customers to receive goods.
Handy Guide to Locker Kiosks: Conclusion
Locker kiosks have become more popular due to their convenience, security, and storage management benefits. Furthermore, they have now been applied in many industries due to their flexibility. They come in multiple variations, including rental lockers.
This guide will help you when selecting a quality locker kiosk for your business needs. You can also get further assistance from BestKiosk, where we will help you with custom locker kiosks for your business. Reach out now to get a free quote.
