Delivery notice and method of using same

Abstract

In general, according to one aspect of the present invention, a single unique delivery notice is left in a particular region. However, just before leaving a delivery notice, the notice is electronically "linked" to the undeliverable package. The electronic "linking" is accomplished with a hand-portable data collection device, which includes a conventional scanning device capable of scanning delivery notices and information marked on packages and stored in the hand-portable data collection device. If ten packages cannot be delivered, only one delivery notice is left, but electronically "linked" to all ten packages. The intended recipient can then use the information on the delivery notice to contact the delivery service via the Internet (or other suitable network) or telephone. By providing the delivery service provider with the unique information on the delivery notice, the intended recipient can gain valuable information about undelivered packages. This information can include shipper names, how many packages each shipper has, delivery attempt times, COD status, etc. The package can then be scheduled to be re-delivered, held at a local delivery center, re-addressed, or returned.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference Related Applications [0002] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 203,402, filed May 11, 2000, which is hereby incorporated by reference. technical field [0003] The present invention relates generally to the delivery of mail, and more particularly to the delivery of mail such as parcels (also known as "packages") from a delivery service provider (hereinafter referred to as a "delivery service provider") to an intended recipient (also known as a "consignee"). ”) delivery. Background technique [0004] The delivery of packages and other mail to the residences of intended recipients is well known in the art. [0005] According to the existing technology, when a package cannot be delivered, a "delivery notice" is left at a specific location, so that the intended recipient has the opportunity to call the delivery service provider (such as UPS) by phone later, and arrange the re-delivery of the package, Save at...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0007] As you can imagine, such activities are very laborious.

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