The rapid rise of e-commerce has permanently changed how Australians shop — and how buildings manage the parcels that arrive daily as a result.

The Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP) market in Australia is projected to grow from AUD 18.83 billion in 2024 to AUD 32.16 billion by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5%. As parcel volumes continue to outpace traditional mail, the pressure on multi-dwelling units (MDUs) and rental properties to manage deliveries safely and efficiently is higher than ever.

Leaving packages in lobbies, hallways, or on doorsteps is no longer acceptable as it creates a potential safety hazard in the building and has led to a new crime wave in parcel theft. Building managers and committees, who are often left sorting, storing, and fielding resident complaints, are increasingly looking for solutions to this growing problem which came to prominence during the covid-19 epidemic.

Smarter Solutions Emerging

To meet this growing demand, the industry is seeing a wave of technology-driven innovations aimed at improving the way parcels are received and stored. Smart locker systems are one of the leading solutions — offering automation, security, and convenience in one package.

SSKB spoke to SMARTECH, a multinational and international provider of smart lockers and with decades of industry experience, to better understand how these systems are evolving to meet modern needs.

According to SMARTECH, who have worked with some leading brands including Ikea, Australia Post and Officeworks, outline that their smart parcel lockers are designed to simplify the delivery process for both couriers and residents. Features like 24/7 access notifications, real-time tracking, and integration with property management systems help reduce manual handling and improve overall security.

“Our systems process over six million parcels annually and are used across thousands of residential and commercial sites in Australia,” Anthony Niddrie, SMARTECH’s Enterprise E-commerce spokesperson told SSKB. “It’s about creating a smoother experience for everyone involved — from the courier to the resident. The demand from apartment buildings is exploding and with up to 50% of the Australian population destined to be living in strata titled properties by 2040, we don’t see this demand slowing down any time soon. ”

The Benefits for Property Managers

For property managers, these systems offer more than just convenience. They can help:

• Reduce operational workloads by automating parcel handling
• Enhance resident satisfaction through fast, secure access
• Improve building security and eliminate parcel theft
• Scale with demand as parcel volumes continue to rise

Cost and Implementation

Smart locker systems vary in size, configuration, and cost depending on the building’s needs. As a general guide:

• A 31-door locker system for a building of around 130 apartments starts from approximately AUD $1.26 per apartment per week + GST, with ownership after a 60-month lease.
• Larger or customised systems may range from AUD $1.50 to $2.00 per apartment per week + GST, depending on the level of integration and design requirements.

*prices may vary and were provided by Smartech as a general guide.

Looking Ahead

With parcel deliveries showing no sign of slowing, smart parcel lockers represent a practical and forward-thinking solution for modern living. While multiple providers are now offering systems across Australia, innovations from companies like SMARTECH highlight how technology is helping residential and commercial properties adapt to this new era of connected communal living.