Xiaomi Partners Smartbox to Offer Deliveries Through Automated Parcel Terminals

In a move to enhance its e-commerce presence, Xiaomi on Tuesday announced its partnership with Smartbox, the startup that manages automated parcel delivery terminals across India. The latest move will enable the Chinese company to encourage customers making online orders and receive their deliveries through Smartbox delivery terminals that are strategically located at locations such as metro stations, residential complexes, and office areas. Customers who'll order through the Mi Store app (v2.10.1 and above) and Mi.com will receive the Smartbox delivery option.

To avail the Smartbox delivery service for orders proceeding through Mi.com, you need to select your nearest Smartbox delivery terminal before reaching the check-out, and once an order is placed, a confirmation message will be sent to your phone from the Smartbox team mentioning a pick-up OTP. You will also be notified through a message once the product reaches the desired Smartbox terminal. If it is a pre-paid order, you can pick it up once you enter the OTP at the Smartbox terminal. But in case of a COD order, you will get the option to swipe your credit or debit card or pay using the BHIM or Paytm app directly at the terminal.

Meet Smartbox, the Startup That’s Bringing Amazon-Like Delivery Lockers to India

It is worth noting here that the Smartbox delivery is currently available for select locations, and the order once delivered to the desired terminal will be returned back to Xiaomi if not collected within 72 hours. You can locate the selected Smartbox terminal by visiting the Google Maps link shared along with the OTP.

"As a global technology leader, we try to bring solutions to our Mi Fans which make for an enjoyable experience. With this new smart delivery option, we hope to provide an even better purchasing experience that is truly smart and user-centric," said Raghu Reddy, Head - Online Sales, Xiaomi India, in a joint press statement.

Noida-based Smartbox believes that its automated parcel terminals help solve the last mile delivery challenge in the country. "We are delighted to get into this partnership with a global leading brand in its category like Xiaomi. Our technology helps solve the most complex part of a parcel's journey - i.e. the last mile," stated Amit Sawhney, CEO, Smartbox Ecommerce Solutions.

Earlier this month, Xiaomi India head Manu Kumar Jain revealed the company's sharpen focus towards offline sales. Jain said in an interview with Reuters that the company was ahead of its schedule of opening 100 Mi Home stores by mid-2019 and add more preferred partner stores in the country.