Abstract: An access control system includes a plurality of containers. Each container comprises a container identification feature, an interior space, a locking device which can be selectively released to access the interior space, and a security module. The security module comprises an authorization module, and a security key generator which generates a security key. An authorization key supply device comprises a storage device and a communication module which directly or indirectly supplies an authorization key to the authorization module. A remote computer system comprises an authorization key generator. The remote computer system communicates with the authorization key supply device to transmit the authorization key thereto. The authorization module compares the security key with the authorization key and generates a signal to release the locking device if the security key matches the authorization key.