GLS Germany has started deploying new hand scanner technology that allows wireless data transferdirectly from the delivery vehicles to simplify transmission of information and bringing benefits
for drivers in their daily routine.The parcel operator is currently replacing all hand scanners used for delivery and pick-up withthe new ones. “We are switching to the model type MC 9596 from Motorola. Most of the drivers arealready using the new devices,” Klaus Conrad, Managing Director GLS Germany, said. The introductionof the new scanners will be completed in May this year.
Previously, delivery drivers transmitted scanning and status data during a tour via bluetooth totheir mobile phones and from there to the GLS system. But this latest technology makes thetransmission to mobile phones unnecessary thanks to an integrated SIM card.
During a tour, a delivery driver uses the hand scanner around 400 times, GLS explained. Thedriver captures the digital signature of the recipient on the device and enters status messagessuch as “successful delivery” or “delivery to parcel shop”. After any change in status, theinformation is transmitted immediately into the IT system and is then available for tracking on theGLS website or via the GLS mobile app, as it is the case with all status information from the hubsand depots.
Another advantage of the new devices is that they offer considerably more functionalities to beused by GLS in the next few years. For example, the hand scanner will be used as a navigationdevice in future. A built-in GPS transmitter supports flexible route planning and control. Inaddition, the photo function has been further improved. Some features have remained the same withthe tool functioning as a virtual receipt book for COD-packages and as a “PIN-code verificationtool” for the IdentPIN-Service.
GLS already introduced Motorola’s mobile computers in 2006 replacing the previous “GepardSigner” scanner used since 1999, followed by the launch of wireless data transfer in Germany andAustria in 2008. The technology including the real-time information has now been implemented innine GLS country subsidiaries.
“The hand scanners – in fact, hand-held computers – support reliable and transparent parcelservices,” Conrad concluded. “For years, they have enabled us to offer shippers and parcelrecipients real-time information. The new devices make it less complicated and help the drivers intheir everyday work.”
