Amazon Parcel Locker Network Heads Across The Pond

Amazon’s network of parcel lockers could soon get a lot bigger.

The eCommerce giant is looking to help its shopper base across Europe tap into the same locker network as seen in the U.S. that enables consumers to pick up packages at lockers in specific set locations, according to a Reuters report.

The option, which is currently available in the U.S. and Britain, enables Amazon to save money on delivery costs and also opens up a new network of delivery options to be tailored to consumers’ needs. The lockers are shown as a pickup option at checkout, and consumers are then given a code to access their package.

The report indicated that Amazon has job postings for the new network, which suggest that Amazon’s plans entail more pickup options for delivery (including the locker option). This comes at the same time that Amazon is looking to build its own logistics network to take over more of its own deliveries.

“Amazon pickup locations, including Amazon Locker, are exciting, new delivery solutions that we are introducing into the German marketplace,” read the Munich business role ad, according to Reuters. Amazon is also reportedly looking to fill more positions for Amazon Locker in multiple cities and countries, including Munich, Paris and Luxembourg. It also has more roles in London.

But when asked about its plans, an Amazon spokesperson only commented: “Amazon is constantly working to develop new services for customers.”

News about Amazon’s ambitions to launch its own logistics network has slowly leaked out over much of the past year.

Via whispers of drones, planes and ships — and even remarks during Amazon’s earnings calls with analysts — the eCommerce giant has made it clear that it wants to rely less on third-party companies, like UPS, and instead invest more into building its own shipping empire.

And new documents in a securities filing show that Amazon has given an even bigger hint at just what those plans will entail. According to those documents, Amazon is looking to build “companies that provide fulfillment and logistics services for themselves or for third parties, whether online or offline.” The documents also hint that Amazon wants to classify the business as a “transportation services provider.”