Waterloo Engineering start-up BufferBox is launching a network of parcel pickup locations at GO Train stations after landing a contract with Metrolinx, the agency that oversees GO Transit stations in Ontario. Beginning with installations in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA), BufferBox will enable GO Transit riders to conveniently pick up goods purchased online at a BufferBox in their local GO Station.
BufferBox was created by three Waterloo mechatronics engineering students as their fourth-year design project to provide a reliable and secure parcel delivery alternative. In January 2012 the students, now Waterloo Engineering alumni, launched what is believed to be the first parcel delivery kiosk service in Canada in the Student Life Centre at the University of Waterloo.
BufferBox notifies shoppers via email as soon as a parcel is available for pick-up, and provides a unique, one-time PIN code they can use to retrieve their goods from the BufferBox.
"Online shopping can be cost effective and time saving, but today's outdated and frustrating parcel delivery process can ruin the experience," said Mike McCauley, co-founder of BufferBox. "Our technology offers people shopping online peace of mind that their parcel is secure and available for anytime pick-up."
BufferBox is headquartered in the VeloCity Garage on Charles Street in downtown Kitchener. [DB story]