Flexible mail delivery system and method

摘要

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.

主权项

1. A method to flexibly deliver an item, comprising:
determining, by a processor, a first delivery point of the item; providing, by the processor, a notification to indicate that the item is en route to the first delivery point; conditionally accepting a second delivery point of the item; requesting, by the processor, an approval of the second delivery point; changing, by the processor, a delivery point of the item after conditionally accepting the second delivery point; and delivering the item based on the conditional acceptance of the second delivery point.