Competitor Watch

Delivery company Yodel has developed an app for all smartphones that will allow drivers to scan barcodes using their own equipment.

The app is to replace handheld computers and ensure that employed and self-employed drivers alike can use the same technology.

As part of the smartphone app, Yodel has integrated barcode scanning software from Scandit, as well as augmented reality (AR).

To meet the needs of its self-employed drivers, Yodel has a ‘bring your own device’ (BYOD) policy. The app can work on almost 20,000 different models of smartphone, and across Android and iOS platforms.

Yodel drivers will now be able to process deliveries while on the road as well as confirming proof of delivery by scanning the barcode using their own devices.

According to Yodel’s chief digital officer, Adam Gerrard, user satisfaction of the app has been high since the app was first released. ‘The app has been deployed rapidly to more than 600 users, on time, with no issues, and has transformed our on-the-road courier experience,’ he said.

Yodel courier, Tania Pinkerton, said: ‘It’s great being able to scan and walk, instead of having to scan at the door. The app allows us to scan as soon as you get near the barcode – no more having to zoom in and out or making sure the parcel is out of any light – it’s even scanning broken barcodes. I seem to be faster delivering, as this technology is speeding me up.’

Last week, our commercial and technology teams celebrated an amazing one million-plus downloads on the Royal Mail app. It’s the first major milestone on a journey to becoming the go-to app for parcel sending, ‎tracking and more.

Since its launch, the app has had significant development and launched some exciting features, including our Parcelbox Finder, an augmented reality (AR) parcel sizer and the facility to track items on the go using Alexa.

The Royal Mail app is part of our commitment to investing in technology that improves the customer experience for both senders and recipients.