Abstract: A customer may collect a package from an automated collection point (ACP) operated by an entity having a central computer system, even when there is no functional communications link between the ACP and the central computer system. A first collection code is generated at the central computer system by means of an algorithm based on a data item particular to the package, such as a package identification code (package ID). The first collection code is sent to the customer who inputs it at the ACP, where it is validated independently using a corresponding algorithm based on a corresponding data item which is independently available to the ACP, preferably the same package ID which is carried by the package and scanned when the package is delivered.

Abstract: A delivery and collection system comprises a plurality of automated locker assemblies, each comprising a plurality of contiguous lockers which are monitored and controlled by a central computer system. Each locker has an autonomous lock unit including a processor, memory and short range wireless transceiver which communicates with any of a plurality of mobile phones or other wireless devices. Customers of the system are granted access to the lockers by validation codes which are communicated via an enabling message from the central computer system to an app running on the customer's device. The app is configured to send an access request to the lock unit based on the enabling message, and to transmit event details downloaded from the lock unit back to the central computer system. Each enabling message may authorise the user device to perform multiple deliveries or collections or may be a one-time code.

Abstract: A delivery and collection system comprises a plurality of automated locker assemblies, each comprising a plurality of contiguous lockers which are monitored and controlled by a central computer system. Each locker has an autonomous lock unit including a processor, memory and short range wireless transceiver which communicates with any of a plurality of mobile phones or other wireless devices. Customers of the system are granted access to the lockers by validation codes which are communicated via an enabling message from the central computer system to an app running on the customer's device. The app is configured to send an access request to the lock unit based on the enabling message, and to transmit event details downloaded from the lock unit back to the central computer system. Each enabling message may authorise the user device to perform multiple deliveries or collections or may be a one-time code.

Abstract: A customer may collect a package from an automated collection point (ACP) operated by an entity having a central computer system, even when there is no functional communications link between the ACP and the central computer system. A first collection code is generated at the central computer system by means of an algorithm based on a data item particular to the package, such as a package identification code (package ID). The first collection code is sent to the customer who inputs it at the ACP, where it is validated independently using a corresponding algorithm based on a corresponding data item which is independently available to the ACP, preferably the same package ID which is carried by the package and scanned when the package is delivered.