Unlocking Smarter Deliveries: How Open Locker Networks Are Reshaping Urban Logistics

As e-commerce continues to grow and reshape how people shop for and receive goods, many communities face the mounting challenge of handling higher delivery volumes efficiently, sustainably, and securely. Enter open locker networks: smart, scalable infrastructure solutions transforming how goods move through urban environments.

What is an Open Locker Network?

Open locker networks are a network of publicly accessible, carrier-agnostic parcel lockers strategically placed across cities and towns or at local business locations. These lockers serve as centralized delivery and pickup points that streamline logistics for businesses, enhance convenience for consumers, and reduce overall environmental impact.

Core Benefits of Open Locker Networks:

There are several ways that open locker networks can benefit your community, including creating:

• MORE Sustainability: Reduce carbon emissions by consolidating deliveries and cutting unnecessary vehicle trips
• MORE Efficiency: Minimize failed deliveries and streamline returns
• MORE Flexibility: Support a wide range of users — from retailers and logistics providers to C2C platforms and local governments
• MORE Community Impact: Offer added services like key exchanges, dry cleaning pickup, or even tool rentals, creating modern, multifunctional service hubs

Delivering MORE Around the World: Open Locker Networks in Action

Parcel Pending by Quadient has successfully implemented its Open Locker Network in major global markets, demonstrating how the model can meet diverse logistical and community needs.

Japan: A High-Volume Innovation Hub

Japan was the first to implement Parcel Pending’s Open Locker Network. Faced with high package volumes and an aging workforce of delivery agents, the country adopted a tech-forward approach to parcel management. The solution includes a carrier-neutral network with lockers placed in convenient, high-traffic locations.

To further enhance reach, lockers have been integrated into konbinis (convenience stores), supermarkets, shopping malls, and pharmacies — including 7-Eleven and AEON locations. The network also supports Japan’s massive C2C market, partnering with platforms like Mercari, Yahoo, and Rakuten Rakuma to streamline peer-to-peer exchanges.

United Kingdom: Smarter Returns, Wider Access

In the UK, the Open Locker Network has helped redefine the returns process while expanding access to broader services. By working with leading carriers and retail partners, Parcel Pending has created a flexible infrastructure that serves both urban and rural users — enhancing convenience for consumers and operational efficiency for businesses.

Lockers in the UK are open to all carriers and business services, enabling consumers to take advantage of click-and-collect, personal storage, laundry collection, key exchange, prescription pickup, and more directly from one location — transforming our lockers into multi-purpose convenience hubs embedded within communities.

A Path to Smarter Urban Infrastructure

The power of open locker networks goes far beyond parcel management. When integrated into community planning, these systems can support key sustainability and livability initiatives:

• Enhancing Connectivity: Centralized lockers improve delivery access and make communities more attractive to residents and businesses alike
• Revitalizing Spaces: Lockers can activate underused or vacant areas, promoting foot traffic and economic activity
• Improving Mobility: Fewer delivery trucks mean reduced congestion, safer streets, and cleaner air
• Supporting Sustainability Goals: Lockers reduce emissions, fuel use, and urban wear-and-tear—helping achieve net-zero targets

Flexible Solutions for Evolving Needs

Parcel Pending’s locker solutions are built for adaptability. From oversized lockers to return solutions with built-in label printers, cities and businesses can design their own delivery network based on local infrastructure and user needs. The system is scalable and mobile — lockers can be relocated or expanded as demand grows.

Backed by robust security features like steel construction, CCTV, and lighting, and enhanced by business intelligence tools that track usage and performance, these lockers offer a comprehensive solution built for modern delivery demands.

Whether you’re seeking to reduce emissions, revitalize public spaces, or support local commerce, Parcel Pending by Quadient has the tools and experience to help you build a more connected, efficient, and sustainable delivery network.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you reimagine parcel logistics.

Click the image below to download our white paper “Transforming the Future: A visionary approach to shaping the smart cities of tomorrow” to learn more about the power of parcel lockers within an open locker network.