The Sesam HomeBox Aids Last-Mile Delivery

Sesam GmbH contributes to a sustainable solution for the so-called ‘last mile’ with its parcel boxes. With the HomeBox, deliveries can be made at any time, preventing the delivery driver from having to visit an address more than once. The recipient can order the package to their parcel box, where it is securely stored until emptied. The box is suitable for all delivery services and can be easily but securely opened. It is ideal for both private and business customers.

By Andreas Müller

(Marl) The delivery driver circles the streets looking for a parking spot, and when they finally arrive at the recipient’s location, the recipient is not home. This is a daily challenge for parcel service providers. For the customer, it costs time and nerves. Either the package is delivered a second time, and the recipient may not be home again, or they have to arrange for pickup at the nearest depot, which can be very time-consuming.

Sesam GmbH has created an alternative solution to this problem with its “HomeBox.” The double-walled plastic boxes can independently accept packages up to 60x40x30 cm with a weight of up to 31.5 kg. The boxes are sturdy, weigh 15 kg, and feature a barcode scanner. In the private sector, shipments are insured up to 500 euros.

Operation and Opening via a Code

The operation and opening of the HomeBox are recognized by a scanned code from the parcel box. The key difference from traditional parcel boxes is the opening mechanism, which consists of an E-Ink display and a barcode scanner. The Sesam box does not require a fixed power connection or Wi-Fi. Data exchange occurs via mobile network. The battery lasts approximately 9 months. When a package is placed inside, the recipient is notified via email.

The Sesam box is suitable for both individual users and multi-family homes. The owner of the box can grant access to up to 5 additional users, allowing neighbors to have packages delivered to the box.

Sesam’s parcel boxes can also receive food, refrigerated goods, and medications. The temperature is maintained. Additionally, packages can be returned using the box.

Everyone involved benefits from this solution:

• The customer/recipient always receives their online orders reliably without having to adjust their schedule.
• The delivery driver saves time and nerves and has satisfied customers.
• The online shop enjoys satisfied customers who return.
• The environment benefits from reduced CO2 emissions and traffic, as delivery to parcel boxes is by far the most environmentally friendly method of delivery.

Also Interesting for Business Customers

Business customers also benefit from installing a HomeBox. It can contribute to the digitalization of a company by:

• Automating and fully tracking package and goods reception.
• Ensuring important deliveries are guaranteed on the announced date.
• Ensuring samples and business packages always arrive, even if the recipient is on a call or out in the field.
• The SESAM HomeBox promotes work-life balance and employer attractiveness.
• Clear delivery & liability.
• The delivery driver sees on the SESAM HomeBox display which parcel box the delivery should be made to.
• Even liability is managed through the parcel box display. Since the recipient’s name is displayed, packages are considered delivered as soon as they are placed in the SESAM HomeBox. As the operator, you are not liable for the delivered packages.
• The system can be expanded at any time.
• Night delivery is enabled.

Sesam GmbH is Gaining Momentum

Sesam GmbH was founded in 2009. However, it wasn’t until 2017 that production and sales really took off. Founder Jesper Okkels states: “In 2009, we were clearly too early with our product. There was no awareness from customers, and the last-mile problem was simply not significant enough.”

Currently, 17 employees work at Sesam, including mechanical engineers, IT and social media specialists, and personnel in sales and administration. “In 2017, things started to gain momentum. After a slow start, we achieved our goals in 2018 and 2019. We are aware that it will be a long journey,” explains Jesper Okkels about the current situation.

Convincing homeowners, especially in multi-family houses, requires effort. Authorities and municipalities also need to be convinced. The requirements for the Sesam HomeBox are diverse and vary from house to house and from municipality to municipality.

Sesam boxes are already available in all locations, from single-family homes to multi-family houses and even in bank counter halls.

Photos: © Sesam

www.sesam-homebox.de