Amtrak service delivers online digital POD images

Amtrak Express Parcels has implemented a sophisticated system that makes original signed proofs of delivery (PoD) available via the Internet. Using the latest document imaging and web technology, Amtrak’s customers, depots and customer service staff can immediately view and print the original PoD document showing recipient details with signature. The docStore service, provided through Amtrak technology partner Image Integrators, also incorporates the scanning of virtually all of Amtrak’s internal documentation. Including manually-collected consignment notes and invoices, around 300,000 documents are scanned monthly. This gives everyone through the Amtrak network immediate and easy access to any document that they need to reference. Thought to be one of the most advanced document image processing implementations in the industry, docStore is part of Amtrak’s strategy to provide industry-leading service through the practical application of technology. Elsewhere Amtrak has purchased handheld scanners with photo-imaging technology designed to capture both barcode and signatures in a single scan at the point of delivery. Amtrak already has an electronic PoD system that makes PoD details available within an hour of the delivery time of any parcel on a premium service, such as the 9, 10 and 12 am timed services. Proof of evening and standard deliveries are available next morning via the Amtrak website. The docStore service provides, in effect, the hard evidence to support the electronic PoD.
Amtrak, who operates a network of 120 regional offices, was recently voted ‘Parcel Company of the Year’ following an independent industry survey undertaken by the online news channel, E-CourierNews. Amtrak Express Parcels won 42% of the vote, winning over many of the well known multi-nationals.