The rapid rise of online shopping has made package management a headache for large apartment complexes. With 90% of residents receiving at least one package weekly and thefts hitting 110 million in 2023, property managers are turning to smart package lockers for solutions. These systems save time, reduce theft, and improve resident satisfaction, but choosing the right vendor isn't simple.
This article compares three popular options for large apartment communities: Luxer One, Parcel Pending, and Amazon Hub. Each offers distinct features, pricing, and integrations, making them suitable for different needs and budgets.
Quick Takeaways:
- Luxer One: Best for properties needing customization and integration with existing systems. Costs range from $6,000 to $20,000 plus maintenance fees.
- Parcel Pending: Ideal for standard layouts with options for temperature-controlled lockers. Flexible pricing includes purchase, subscription, or leasing models.
- Amazon Hub: A one-time cost solution ($10,000–$20,000) with no monthly fees, great for straightforward delivery needs.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Luxer One | Parcel Pending | Amazon Hub |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $6,000–$20,000 + fees | Custom quotes, leases | $10,000–$20,000 (no fees) |
| Integration | Open API, PropTech-ready | Works with Yardi, Entrata | Property systems, Amazon Key |
| Package Types | All sizes, outbound, visitors | Oversized, temperature | All carriers, returns |
| Best For | High volume, customization | Standard setups, groceries | Budget-conscious properties |
Smart lockers are a must-have for modern apartments, with 57% of community managers favoring them. Read on for a detailed breakdown of each vendor's offerings.
Why Properties Prefer Luxer One
1. Luxer One
Luxer One has established itself as a leading smart locker solution for multifamily properties, boasting over 200 million packages delivered across the United States [6]. According to the 2018 Package Delivery Report by NMHC & Kingsley Research, it holds the top spot as the preferred smart locker system for multifamily properties [5].
Key Features
Luxer One offers a range of features designed to simplify package management for both residents and property managers. Residents enjoy 24/7 access through a touchscreen interface that sends access codes via text or email. The system ensures 99.9% uptime and accommodates packages of all sizes with standard, letter, and oversized lockers [3][4]. Additional security comes from 24/7 video surveillance, while integrated manager software provides property staff with full oversight [5].
The system also supports outbound shipping and accepts deliveries for unregistered residents, making it a flexible option for properties with frequent visitors or temporary tenants [5]. Lockers can even be customized to match the property’s design [5].
For those looking for extra convenience, Luxer One offers Premium Plans. These plans include faster returns, shared household access for families, and package tracking via a mobile app, all of which enhance the experience for residents. On the business side, these premium features generate recurring revenue for properties while boosting resident satisfaction [10].
Integrations
Luxer One is designed to work seamlessly with existing property management systems. Its open API allows property managers to integrate camera feeds and data into their current platforms. Partnerships with companies like Rhombus enhance security and improve operational efficiency by preventing package theft and streamlining support [7].
"Rhombus is embedded in our backend so a property manager can log into a single manager portal and see everything they can possibly need." - Tessa Turner, VP of Operations at Luxer One [7]
Luxer One also integrates with Livly, enabling residents to receive package notifications directly in the Livly app. Property staff can manage deliveries and track packages from the Livly Hub, consolidating multiple functions into one system [8]. These integrations make it easier for properties to manage high package volumes while maintaining smooth operations.
Pricing
The cost of Luxer One varies depending on the locker configuration, with prices ranging from $6,000 to $20,000, not including monthly maintenance fees [3][6]. This pricing structure makes it a strong option for large apartment communities looking for a reliable and feature-rich solution.
Best For
Luxer One is a great fit for large apartment complexes that handle a high volume of packages and prioritize integration and customization. Its features are particularly valuable for properties aiming to reduce staff workload while offering premium services to residents. Steve Hallsey, EVP of Operations at Wood Partners, highlights its importance:
"Luxer One is part of our core group of amenities all our communities need to have. Their forward-thinking nature and dedication to their customers is what sets them apart." [5]
Additionally, it’s an appealing choice for properties already invested in PropTech, with nearly 70% of properties leveraging PropTech for at least one amenity [9]. However, it’s worth noting that the system has received mixed feedback. While many users appreciate its functionality, reviews on platforms like Trustpilot (1.3 rating) and the Google Play App (3.2 rating) mention issues such as late pickup fees and occasional system glitches [3].
2. Parcel Pending
Parcel Pending has made a name for itself in the multifamily housing market, with over 10,000 installations worldwide. Every year, the company manages the delivery of more than 70 million packages to over 5 million residents [18, 19, 21]. It has also achieved SOC 2 Type 2 certification, showcasing its dedication to meeting the data security and privacy needs of large apartment complexes [11].
Key Features
Parcel Pending's smart locker systems provide residents with 24/7 access to their packages [12]. By automating package management, it helps property staff save up to 24 hours of work each week [11]. The lockers are equipped with sturdy locks, surveillance systems, and sensors for enhanced security [11].
For properties that handle deliveries like groceries, medications, or other temperature-sensitive items, Parcel Pending offers temperature-controlled lockers [11]. It also accommodates oversized and overflow deliveries with dedicated package rooms [11]. Additional features include:
- Consolidated boxes for multiple packages
- Real-time insights for property managers
- Easy resident registration and surveys
- A property manager exchange feature
- Dedicated resident support [11]
"The lockers take the majority of my package handling out of my associates' hands, which increases productivity as well as security for my residents' packages."
- Brian Peterson, Property Manager, Security Properties Residential [11]
These features, combined with its advanced software capabilities, make Parcel Pending a strong contender for seamless package management.
Integrations
Parcel Pending integrates smoothly with major property management software platforms like Yardi, Entrata, ResMan, Rent Manager, and RealPage [14]. Its robust API and universal partner integrations ensure compatibility with existing systems and delivery workflows [12]. Features like automated reservations, delivery notifications, and locker access control are powered by API and webhook integrations [12].
The company provides a dedicated launch team to assist with software integration and offers training for both couriers and property staff [11]. Custom integration solutions are also available for properties with specific technical needs [14]. For example, Cortland Partners properties reported a 40% increase in lease renewals after implementing Parcel Pending's locker solutions alongside their property management software [11].
Pricing
Parcel Pending offers flexible pricing models to meet varying budgets, including purchase, subscription, and fee-sharing options [11]. For those looking for financing, the company provides 3-year payment plans for its systems [13]. Properties can also choose to lease the lockers, paying monthly maintenance fees while residents cover subscription costs [13]. Many properties charge residents a small monthly fee for locker access - for instance, Ardendale Oaks in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, charges $3.99 per month [13]. Pricing specifics aren’t listed online and require a custom quote from Parcel Pending [15]. Depending on the setup, the investment can range into tens of thousands of dollars [13].
Best For
Parcel Pending is a great fit for large apartment complexes seeking to enhance efficiency and improve resident satisfaction. It’s especially suited for properties that need seamless integration with existing management systems and handle various package types, including oversized and temperature-sensitive deliveries.
"From an office standpoint, Parcel Pending has really helped with maximizing our office efficiency. It actually allows us to devote more time to bettering the resident experience in other ways."
- Eric Holley, Residential Property Manager, Miller Valentine Group [11]
"We know residents expect properties to have a solution for managing packages... We are thrilled that the lockers are becoming a selling point for our on-site teams."
- Joshua Delzell, Strategic Initiatives Manager, Venterra Realty [11]
sbb-itb-58157f8
3. Amazon Hub
Amazon Hub Apartment Lockers bring Amazon's package expertise right to multifamily properties. Unlike the public Amazon lockers you see at grocery stores or gas stations, these are designed specifically for apartment residents and can accept packages from all carriers - not just Amazon [17][19].
Key Features
Amazon Hub Apartment Lockers offer 24/7 access, making life easier for residents while lightening the load for property managers [16]. Since the system works with all major carriers - like UPS, FedEx, and USPS - residents can get their deliveries in one secure spot, no matter who ships them [19].
"All packages, from every carrier, delivered into one locker designed for residential properties." - Amazon [16]
The lockers come in modular sizes to fit different property layouts and handle varying package volumes. A standard unit includes 42 lockers and is compatible with 99% of package sizes [17][19]. Once a package is delivered, residents are notified automatically and receive a unique pickup code. The system even supports returns, making it a full-service solution [16]. Plus, by keeping packages in secure, enclosed lockers, it helps prevent theft and reduces clutter in building lobbies.
These features make Amazon Hub easy to incorporate into property management workflows.
Integrations
Amazon Hub Apartment Lockers seamlessly integrate with property management systems to simplify delivery processes [16]. Additional tools, like Amazon Key for Business and video intercom systems, enhance security by granting delivery drivers controlled access [1]. For properties looking to go even further, Amazon's Alexa Smart Properties platform supports broader smart building management [20]. To get started, property managers can contact Amazon for installation details and onboarding support for residents [1].
This tight integration framework makes Amazon Hub a practical and efficient choice for managing deliveries.
Pricing
Installing a standard 42-locker Amazon Hub unit comes with an upfront cost ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 [18][19]. One big advantage? There are no monthly fees for hosting or operating the system. This can help reduce overall expenses and may even eliminate the need for dedicated mailroom staff [21]. However, Amazon requires installation approval to ensure the system meets its technical standards [18].
Best For
Amazon Hub Apartment Lockers are a smart choice for large apartment complexes that handle a high volume of packages from multiple carriers. With its universal compatibility and one-time purchase model, it's especially appealing to owners looking to avoid recurring costs. Budget-conscious property managers who prefer upfront investments over ongoing fees will likely find this system a great fit.
Pros and Cons
Choosing the right package management system for large apartment communities means weighing the strengths and challenges of each vendor. Here's a breakdown of how Luxer One, Parcel Pending, and Amazon Hub compare across key aspects:
| Aspect | Luxer One | Parcel Pending | Amazon Hub |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reliability | High – offers comprehensive support from installation to daily operations [9] | High – proven performance in multifamily properties | High – backed by Amazon's extensive logistics expertise |
| Ease of Integration | Moderate – initial setup needed but allows extensive customization | Easy – known for its user-friendly design [26] | Moderate – works well with property systems but requires vendor-approved setup |
| Pricing Transparency | Pricing varies based on configuration | Subscription-based model | One-time fee with no recurring costs |
| Property Suitability | Great for diverse layouts with mix-and-match modules [3][22] | Best for standard building configurations | Ideal for straightforward, cost-effective solutions |
While the table outlines the basics, let's dive into the details of each system's strengths and potential drawbacks.
Luxer One
Luxer One stands out for its customizable options, including features like Luxer Room, Luxer Fridge, and weather-resistant modules. This flexibility makes it a good fit for properties with varied layouts. However, the initial setup can be more complex compared to standardized systems.
Parcel Pending
Parcel Pending offers a streamlined, user-friendly solution that works well for properties with standard layouts. While its simplicity is a major advantage, it may not provide enough customization for spaces with unique requirements [26].
Amazon Hub
Amazon Hub uses a one-time pricing model, which eliminates ongoing fees, making it a budget-friendly option. However, the required vendor-approved installation process can lead to delays. Its standardized design may also pose challenges for properties with unconventional layouts.
Common Challenges Across All Systems
Regardless of the vendor, package lockers face some universal issues. For example, during peak shopping seasons, overfilled lockers can lead to delivery problems if the system size doesn't align with the building's package volume [23]. Couriers sometimes bypass proper protocols, placing multiple packages in a single compartment, which can result in damaged goods and frustrated residents [24]. Additionally, systems requiring couriers to scan each package individually can slow down the delivery process [25].
Solutions for Property Managers
To address these challenges, property managers can:
- Set clear delivery protocols for couriers.
- Send regular reminders to residents to pick up their packages promptly.
- Ensure the locker system integrates smoothly with property management software to streamline notifications [25].
Conclusion
When choosing a package management solution, match your property's specific needs with the strengths of each vendor. Luxer One is ideal for properties with varied layouts that require adaptable solutions. Parcel Pending stands out in standard building setups, offering simplicity and proven reliability. Properties using Parcel Pending often report minimal issues, with service requests resolved within a day [11]. For straightforward delivery needs, Amazon Hub offers a practical option.
The benefits of these systems are clear. In 2023, residents ranked "secure package receiving options" as their top amenity [29], with parcel lockers following closely as the second most important feature [29]. Properties utilizing smart locker systems see a 40 percent boost in resident renewals, and 98 percent of users report being "very satisfied" [2].
"The Parcel Pending product speaks for itself. It's durable, it's easily configurable, it can also be modified to fit specific needs." - Justin Dunckel, President, Paragon Properties [11]
When deciding on a system, consider factors like package volume, available space, and budget. Properties managing hundreds of deliveries daily might find package rooms with integrated access control systems more flexible than traditional lockers [27]. Smart lockers are quickly becoming the norm for properties looking to stay competitive [28]. While the initial investment ranges from $5,000 to $21,000 per unit [31], it often pays off by lowering operational costs and increasing resident satisfaction. Ensure the system you choose integrates seamlessly with your property management software and provides the security residents expect. With 57 percent of community managers identifying package lockers as the best delivery solution [30], investing in the right system not only solves current package management challenges but also supports long-term efficiency in a delivery-driven world.
FAQs
What should property managers evaluate when selecting a package locker system for large apartment buildings?
When deciding on a package locker system for large apartment buildings, property managers need to weigh a few important factors: cost, reliability, ease of use, and how well the system integrates with existing property management software. Another critical aspect is how the system accommodates oversized or oddly shaped packages, which are often part of the delivery mix in multifamily buildings.
You’ll also want to assess the specific requirements of your property. Consider things like the volume of daily deliveries, the space available for installing lockers, and what your tenants prefer. Choosing the right system can streamline package handling, boost tenant satisfaction, and make day-to-day operations more efficient for your team.
How do smart package lockers work with property management systems, and what are the key benefits of these integrations?
Smart package lockers work hand-in-hand with property management systems through APIs and software integrations. This connection enables features such as automated notifications, real-time tracking, and streamlined management processes.
These integrations bring several advantages: quicker and more efficient package handling, lower chances of lost deliveries, and a better experience for residents. For property managers, it means less time spent on routine tasks, while residents benefit from secure, hassle-free access to their packages with timely updates.
What challenges might property managers face with package lockers during busy shopping seasons, and how can they overcome them?
During busy shopping seasons, property managers often face challenges like overloaded lockers, security risks, and delivery delays caused by a spike in package volumes. If these issues aren’t handled well, they can disrupt day-to-day operations and leave residents feeling frustrated.
One way to tackle these peak periods is by using flexible smart lockers designed to handle increased demand. Pairing these with automation and advanced management systems can help streamline deliveries, minimize bottlenecks, and enhance security. Planning ahead for these seasonal surges can make things run more smoothly for both property staff and residents.
