Lithuanian Post introduces self-service parcel terminals
Lithuanian Post is introducing self-service parcel terminals that offer 24-hour access for package collection. The SIUNTOS24 (Delivery24) service will be available in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda, Siauliai and Panevezys.
Lithuanian Post has set up 15 parcel terminals at major shopping centres already, and is planning to install a total of 71 terminals in 44 towns and cities.
The Post is investing LTL 18m ($7.25m USD) in the project.
Lithuanian Post director-general Lina Minderienė said the use of self-service terminals was a “modern” way to send and receive shipments.
“We believe that these terminals will be especially appealing to busy professionals and time saving for residents and businesses,” she said.
Terminals
Lithuania’s project follows a similar deployment of parcel terminals in fellow Baltic state Estonia.
The terminals comprise a bank of lockers of various sizes to suit different sizes of parcels. When a parcel arrives at a parcel terminal, it automatically sends an email or text message alert message to the recipient to pick up the item, providing a code to open the correct locker.
The recipient can also request the parcel be delivered to another terminal.
Shipping costs depend on size and weight, ranging from LTL 7.99 ($3.22 USD) to LTL 15.99 ($6.44 USD).
The terminals are being installed by Lithuanian transport and express parcel carrier UAB Kautra.
Kautra chairman Mindaugas Platūkis said: “The new self-service terminals will allow people to send or receive shipments more quickly and easily. They will no longer have to wait for the courier, or use work hours to rush to the post office. From now on, items can be sent and received at any time of day.”
