PostNord tests parcel boxes in Denmark

PostNord has started a pilot project to test a completely new infrastructure for the delivery of parcels. Together with the company Swipbox it started an experiment in Kolding in Denmark to deliver parcels to digital parcel boxes that are in close proximity to consumers’ homes.

PostNord says it recognizes the need for delivery solutions that can handle the expectations of online shoppers with regards to fast, flexible and precise deliveries. It believes parcel boxes, installed near consumers’ homes, can fulfill this need. During the last few years, the company tested other options, such as delivery to the trunks of cars and home deliveries to locked containers.

PostNord and Swipbox

The Nordic postal company has teamed up with Swipbox, which develops software and hardware for self-service machines, to install 200 digital parcel boxes in the Danish city of Kolding. If the pilot happens to be a success, the two companies want to rollout parcel boxes throughout Denmark. And they are even speaking of a possible expansion to the other Nordic countries.

Nærboks can be used by all postal and logistics operators

In Denmark, the parcel boxes (called “Nærboks”) will be installed by Nordic Infrastructure, a company that’s jointly owned by PostNord and SwipBox. The parcel boxes are part of an open parcel network, so all postal and logistics operators can deliver parcels to these boxes.

Recipients of a PostNord delivery can use the PostNord app to open the box and get the parcel at a time they think is convenient.