Getting Ready: Amazon Locker Service

Problem definition

Amazon is an online retailer that allows customers to order products for delivery. Sometimes, customers are unavailable at their usual address to receive packages. In such cases, Amazon provides a secure, automated pickup and return service called Amazon Locker.

Amazon Lockers are available at various locations, each containing multiple lockers of different sizes and operating hours. Customers can select a nearby locker location for delivery or returns. Only packages that fit a locker’s size are eligible. When a package arrives, the customer receives a unique code to retrieve it. Packages are stored for a limited period; if uncollected, they are removed, and the customer may be refunded. Customers can also return eligible products by dropping them off at available locker locations, where the logistics team picks them up.

This scenario presents interesting challenges: real-time resource allocation, handling concurrent user requests, operating hour constraints, managing physical locker and package sizes, and supporting delivery and return flows.

In this LLD interview case study, your focus will be on:

• Assigning lockers to orders and returns based on size ...