Flexible mail delivery system and method
First Claim
1. A computer-implemented method for changing the delivery point of an item while the item is en route, comprising:
- determining, by a processor, a first delivery point from the item;
responsive to the determining, notifying a recipient electronically, based on the first delivery point, that the item is en route;
notifying a sender, based on an identifier of the sender obtained from the item, that the item is en route;
accepting, by the processor, at least one instruction designating a second delivery point;
receiving, by the processor, approval of the at least one instruction; and
delivering the item to the second delivery point.
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Abstract
The principles of the present invention provide the ability to flexibly change the delivery point and time for a mail item, while the item is en route. The recipient, sender, or mailer may flexibly change the delivery point of the item alone or in combination with each other. While an item is en route between the sending point and the delivery point, a notification is sent to indicate that the item is in transit. In response, the delivery of the item may be changed. For example, the destination specified by the sender (e.g., the delivery address written on the item) may be changed or a delivery time may be specified. The item is then delivered to the new delivery point and/or at the specified delivery time.
75 Citations
5 Claims
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1. A computer-implemented method for changing the delivery point of an item while the item is en route, comprising:
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determining, by a processor, a first delivery point from the item; responsive to the determining, notifying a recipient electronically, based on the first delivery point, that the item is en route; notifying a sender, based on an identifier of the sender obtained from the item, that the item is en route; accepting, by the processor, at least one instruction designating a second delivery point; receiving, by the processor, approval of the at least one instruction; and delivering the item to the second delivery point. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4)
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5. A system for changing the delivery point of an item while the item is en route, comprising:
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a processor; and a memory coupled to the processor, the memory storing instructions to direct the processor to perform operations comprising; determining a first delivery point from the item; responsive to the determining, causing notification of a recipient electronically, based on the first delivery point, that the item is en route; causing notification of a sender, based on an identifier of the sender obtained from the item, that the item is en route; accepting a second delivery point from the recipient; receiving, by the processor, approval of the at least one instruction; and causing delivery of the item to the second delivery point.
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Specification