Package Station

I've spent a lot of time complaining about Berlin. Here's something cool.

It's called a Packstation.



I know it looks likes like a combination of a phone booth and an ATM, but it's really an automated package repository.

If you're not home to pick up your package, Deutsche Post (which, as far as I can tell, is run by DHL) will put a lovely envelope in your mailbox.



When you have the time, day or night, you may take this envelope to the local grocery store, which is where I found the above package station.

Scan the enclosed bar code at the window.



Then, use your finger to sign the touch screen. Pay no attention to the bad English instructions that tell you to "subscribe with your finger".



"Subscribe" is a transliteration of the German word unterschreiben, which means "sign".

Then one of these little gray windows will open...



...and boom! there's your package.



What's so great about the package station is that you don't have to worry about anyone "going postal" on you, and the thing is never closed. Efficient and convenient. Pay attention, America.