In an ever-changing electronic world, mail services such as UPS are finding younger people don't want to wait for their mail. Instead, they want a text message to tell them when it's arrived.
"One of the biggest trends that's happened recently is the generation that's coming up is more techno-savvy," said Thom Dance, the owner of four UPS stores in Dallas. "They order stuff online; know how to get texts and e-mails. So, in order to keep up with that, one thing we've done is when our box-holders get a package we send them an e-mail or text."
Dance said, this way, customers can wait for all of their packages to arrive then pick them up at once when it's convenient for them.
So far, the service seems popular. In order to sign up, customers have to rent a mailbox at UPS. Dance said two months ago he installed 60 new boxes, bringing the total to more than 600 just at one location.
"I love it -- getting an e-mail. Because sometimes you forget about a package," said customer Cynthia Crawford.
Others said it's safer.
"Especially if you’re not at home -- they can sign for packages for you. You don’t have to worry about being there or have a package left on your front porch and being taken or something like that," said customer Nathan Schroder.
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Crawford said, for her, it's the future of the mail system.
"I think we’re already in it. And look what it did for me. I just have to check my e-mail and come get my package. I know I’ll get a notification," she said.
