In 2017, Amazon introduced the Amazon Hub program—a system that provides its shoppers with an easy and convenient way to pick up their orders. This is particularly useful for customers who live in areas where “porch piracy” is rampant. In this article, we will explore the program, how to apply to host an Amazon Hub, and how customers can use it. Let’s dive in!
How Do Amazon Hubs Work?
When checking out from Amazon, customers can choose Amazon Hub Locker or Counter as a delivery option. In this case, rather than their orders being shipped directly to their house, they may select a retail location from which to get their package. Once the package is delivered to the Hub, the customer will receive a notification containing a unique pickup code. Then, whenever is most convenient for them, the customer just has to go to the Hub’s location and get the package! Because of this system, customers no longer have to worry about their Amazon packages being stolen from their doorsteps.
Taking a Closer Look at Amazon Hubs
What Is the Amazon Hub Counter?
As mentioned above, Amazon Hub is the pickup program, but what is a Hub Counter on Amazon? Simply put, the “Counter” is the physical counter from which customers may get their packages. These counters can be found at participating retail locations, including department stores, grocery stores, and convenience stores. The Amazon Hub program also has “Lockers,” which we’ll explain later, but the Counter is run by trained staff who assist customers with pickups, returns, and exchanges.
Wondering how to become an Amazon Hub Counter? Unfortunately, it isn’t as simple as just registering for the program. There are certain qualifications you must meet first, which include:
- Having a physical retail location with regular business hours
- Having a secure area to store packages
- Having an internet-connected device to manage package deliveries and pickups
What Is Amazon Locker?
Amazon Locker works differently from the Amazon Hub Counter. While the Counter is staffed, the Locker is a self-service locker, meaning that customers receive their own packages without assistance. This may be even more convenient for some customers, as they won’t need to wait for staff to help them, but it also means that they don’t get the perks of returns & exchange assistance, which Counter employees provide.
However, there is a halfway point between the Counter and Locker programs: Locker+. If a location offers Amazon Hub Locker+, there will be self-service kiosks for package pickup, a free return drop-off area, and an Amazon associate who can assist you.
See Also:
Summing Up Amazon Hub Locker vs. Amazon Hub Counter
In brief, there are two main differences between the two pickup points: the level of service you receive, and how large/heavy your packages may be. An Amazon Hub Counter offers an all-in-one experience, in which you may receive assistance with pickup, exchanges, and returns, plus the orders may be larger and heavier. An Amazon Hub Locker accepts smaller/lighter packages, and you pick up your order on your own.
Pros and Cons of the Amazon Hub Program
➕ Pros of the Amazon Hub Program
- Convenience. The Amazon Hub program provides customers with a convenient pickup and delivery option that eliminates the need to be home to receive packages. Customers can choose to have their packages delivered to a Locker or Counter and pick them up at their convenience.
- Security. Security: The Amazon Hub program provides customers with a secure pickup and delivery option. Lockers and Counters are located in public places with high visibility and are monitored by cameras. This reduces the risk of porch piracy or damage to packages.
- Cost-effective: The Amazon Hub program is cost-effective for both Amazon and its customers. Amazon can reduce the cost of last-mile delivery by using Lockers and Counters, and customers can save money on shipping by choosing the free delivery option to a Locker or Counter.
- Local business benefits: While there is no compensation involved in being an Amazon hub host, you will get more customers in your store—people who come to pick up their packages may end up buying products from your shop.
➖ Cons of the Amazon Hub Program
- Limited availability: The Amazon Hub program is not available in all areas. Customers may not have access to Lockers or Counters if they live in a rural or remote area.
- Package size restrictions: Amazon Lockers and Counter have size restrictions, and packages that exceed the maximum size cannot be delivered to Lockers. This can be inconvenient for customers who need to receive larger items.
- Pickup time restrictions: Amazon Hub Counters and Lockers have limited business hours.
Final Thoughts
As a small business, it may be beneficial for you to understand how to use Amazon Hub from a customer’s point of view. This way, if any of your shoppers have questions about the program, you’ll be equipped to answer them! As explained above, Amazon Hub can be great for small businesses, as people who come to pick up their packages may end up making purchases from your shop. That’s a huge benefit of Amazon Hub Counter to local businesses!
Hosting an Amazon Hub can be a great way to bring new faces into your shop! It’s free to host a Hub; if you’re interested, you can register here. Keep an eye on the PIRS blog for more articles that can help you boost your business! And remember, should you ever be in need of funding, just give us a call.
I work with companies that sell products on platforms such as Amazon, Shopify, Walmart, Ebay, Etsy, etc. I understand that every business is unique and thats why I form genuine relationships with owners so I can help them reach their goals and find success through our working capital solutions.