Smart Locker Costs in 2025: Pricing Guide for Schools and Businesses 

If you're considering smart lockers for your business or school, one of your first questions is likely: how much do smart lockers cost? The short answer: it depends on several key factors — but most smart locker systems fall within the range of £2,400 and £9,500 per unit.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what influences smart locker pricing, compare cost models, and help you understand the return on investment. Whether you're in IT, operations, or facilities management, this article gives you the info you need to plan your budget effectively. 

What is a smart locker?

Smart lockers are secure, digitally controlled storage systems that use access methods like PIN codes, RFID badges, mobile apps, or facial recognition. These lockers are often managed through cloud-based software, enabling real-time tracking, automated check-in/check-out, and access logs. 

They’re used in a variety of industries to streamline logistics and reduce manual tasks. Common use cases include: 

• Managing shared laptops or tablets in schools and universities 

• IT teams distributing loaner or 1:1 devices to staff

• Secure storage of mobile tech during shift changes or remote work 

• Automating the exchange of equipment and accessories in business environments 

Many smart lockers — especially those used in education and enterprise — include built-in device charging, allowing users to pick up fully powered equipment at any time. These smart charging lockers combine physical security with digital control and power management, making them ideal for high-usage environments where uptime matters. 

Smart charging locker price ranges: Low, mid, and high

The cost of a smart locker depends on many different factors, including whether it has a cloud connection, the complexity of your workflow, and the extent of software and hardware features.  

We’ve broken them down to three primary levels of smart locker prices — low, mid-range and high — each with pros and cons:

Low-cost lockers (< £2,400) 

These are often marketed as “smart lockers” but usually lack true connectivity or advanced management features.  

Pros: 

• Affordable and simple to deploy 

• Can provide secure public charging in shared spaces 

• Ideal for basic storage + charge needs (e.g., schools with limited tech programs) 

Cons: 

• Often not connected to the cloud — limited to local access control 

• No remote management or usage tracking 

• Not suitable for IT automation or complex workflows 

• May not scale well with growing device fleets 

Note: Many models in this category are better described as electronic or keyless lockers, not fully “smart charging lockers” in the modern IT sense. 

Mid-range lockers (£2,400–£9,500) 

This is where most smart charging locker solutions for education and enterprise fall. 

Pros: 

• Include secure charging inside each bay 

• Support cloud software for remote access, visibility, and reporting 

• Often include APIs or integrations (e.g., with ServiceNow or MDM tools) 

• Designed for workflows like broken device exchanges, loaner programs, and unattended check-in/out 

• Durable hardware with future-proofed configurations 

Cons: 

• May include more features than necessary if public charging is your only goal 

• Less customisation than higher-end units 

• Some configurations may not fit unique or highly specialized workflows 

High-end lockers (£9,500+) 

These are enterprise-grade systems designed for maximum flexibility, integration, and scale. 

Pros: 

• Offer advanced hardware (e.g., modular bays, biometric access) 

• Highly customisable cloud software 

• Capable of supporting multiple complex workflows in parallel 

• Built to manage high volumes of devices in environments like healthcare, defense, or global enterprise 

Cons: 

• High initial cost and setup complexity 

• May include advanced features you won’t need
  
  
• Not always necessary for education or standard IT asset workflows
  

Choosing between low, mid, and high-end lockers depends not just on features but also on the long-term efficiencies they create. Evaluating both upfront costs and ongoing savings can help you find the best fit for your needs.

What affects the cost of smart locker systems? 

Several key factors influence the final price of a smart locker solution — especially when you're investing in smart charging lockers for education or enterprise IT.  

From physical hardware to cloud-based software, understanding what drives cost can help you plan effectively, avoid hidden fees, and choose a solution that meets your workflow needs today and in the future.

1. Hardware configuration

The physical makeup of your locker system can significantly impact cost. Key considerations include: 

• Number of compartments: More compartments increase the total price, but often lower the cost per bay. 

• Locker size and format: Some lockers are designed to store and charge full-sized laptops or tablets, while others are compact and suited for smartphones or smaller devices. 

• Built-in charging: Charging lockers include AC outlets or USB-C ports inside each compartment to keep devices powered and ready. 

• Displays and interfaces: Integrated touchscreens, status indicators, or tablets allow users to interact with the locker system directly. 

• Access methods: Options like RFID badge readers, PIN code entry, or mobile app access can vary in cost. 

• Durability and materials: Lockers built for high-traffic, industrial, or school environments often use reinforced materials for long-term performance. 

IT Tip: Don’t just ask how many bays a locker has — ask how those bays are powered, accessed, and managed remotely. Charging capabilities and hardware durability are essential in high-use environments like schools or shift-based workplaces.

2. Software licensing & cloud management features

The software behind the locker is what makes it truly "smart." Licensing and platform access costs are typically based on: 

• Cloud-based management: Admin dashboards allow IT teams to monitor locker usage, assign access, and track device check-in/out in real time. 

• Access logs and audit trails: Useful for compliance and security — especially in education or regulated industries. 

• Workflow automations: Automate device swaps, overnight charging rotations, or student self-service checkouts. 

• Locker visibility: Know which compartments are in use or available at any time. 

• Integrations: Many systems integrate with commonly used tools like SIS, Active Directory, Google Workspace, or Microsoft Azure AD for seamless user provisioning and access control. 

• User experience customisation: Some platforms allow you to configure messages, notifications, and instructions for students or staff. 

IT Tip: Ask how licenses are billed — per locker, per user, or flat-rate — and what level of remote control you’ll have out of the box. Not all platforms offer the same visibility or customisation.

3. Installation, setup, and maintenance

Beyond the locker and software, total cost of ownership includes the services and support needed to deploy and maintain your system: 

• Installation method: Will lockers be wall-mounted or freestanding? Some systems ship ready to use, while others require on-site assembly. 

• Network setup: Lockers typically connect via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Make sure your IT infrastructure can support the required connections and security standards. 

• Onboarding and training: Some vendors offer virtual or on-site training for your IT staff and users — sometimes included, sometimes at a cost. 

• Ongoing support: Ask what level of support is included with your license. Does it cover firmware updates, troubleshooting, or hardware replacements? 

• Spare parts and repair policies: Understand what happens if a bay, lock, or screen fails — and how long repairs typically take. 

IT Tip: A low-cost locker with limited support might cost more in the long run. Check if there's an SLA, what turnaround times look like, and how easy it is to reach support.

4. Customisation and workflow flexibility

Smart charging lockers work best when they fit your specific operational needs. Customisation options can influence both price and effectiveness: 

• Branding and appearance: Customise lockers with school or company logos, colors, and signage for a professional look. 

• Access flows: Define how users receive access — via codes, RFID badges, email notifications, or mobile apps. 

• Workflow templates: Some systems allow you to create workflows for different user groups (e.g., students vs. IT staff). 

• Multilingual and accessible UIs: Especially helpful in education environments or for ADA compliance. 

• Scalability: Modular systems that grow with your device program may be more cost-effective in the long run. 

IT Tip: If your school or organisation has unique device workflows, ask if the system can be configured internally or if vendor assistance is required for changes. 

Final advice for IT teams 

When comparing smart locker vendors, don’t just ask for a general quote — ask for a detailed breakdown that includes: 

• Hardware costs per locker or bay 

• Software licensing (monthly or annual, per user or device) 

• Installation and setup fees 

• Support and training options 

• Optional integrations or add-ons 

• Warranty and service level details 

A well-structured quote will help you compare vendors fairly and make sure the system you choose delivers long-term value. 

Smart locker pricing models: Upfront vs subscription 

Smart locker systems are typically priced in one of two ways: an upfront purchase model or a subscription-based model. Understanding how each works is essential for IT teams planning deployments across schools or business locations. 

• With upfront pricing, you purchase the locker hardware as a one-time capital expense. This approach often appeals to school districts or enterprises with defined technology budgets, as it allows long-term ownership and control. While the initial cost may be higher, it can result in lower total cost of ownership over several years. However, even with upfront pricing, cloud software licenses and support agreements may still carry annual fees, so it’s important to factor those into your long-term budget.
  
  
• In contrast, subscription-based pricing bundles the locker hardware, software platform, and ongoing support into a recurring monthly or annual fee. This “as-a-service” model reduces the barrier to entry and is ideal for organisations that want to avoid capital expenditures, scale gradually, or run pilot programs. It also tends to include software updates, system maintenance, and access to integrations as part of the ongoing service. However, this flexibility may come with a higher total cost over time compared to outright purchase — and access to the system and data is tied to an active subscription. 

Finding the right smart locker price level

Smart locker costs aren’t always cut-and-dried. Before you can find the right type for your business or school budget, there are several things you need to think about.

What features do you really need?

Often what’s more important than your smart locker price is the extent to which they solve your biggest pain points. On the flip side, does it solve problems that are irrelevant to your organisation? There’s often no need to overpay for fancy features like UV light in bays, vending machine capabilities or complex inventory scanning systems, while other features can be extremely useful no matter what you’ll use it for, like external LED lights to show the status of each bay, open API with no call limits, external ticketing system integrations and modular replacement parts.

How big is your mobile technology program?

It’s important to consider the number of individually-lockable bays when comparing the cost of a smart locker. Calculating the cost per bay can give you a better apples-to-apples comparison of the total investment.

For a busy device management program or an organisation with a large fleet of mobile devices, it can be beneficial to select a locker with a slightly higher capacity than you expect to use. Even if all locker bays aren’t utilised immediately after your locker implementation, having a few extra slots allows flexibility should your program grow or change.

What is the total cost of ownership?

When evaluating smart lockers, it’s important to look beyond the initial purchase. The total cost of ownership (TCO) includes hardware, software, support, and maintenance over the system’s lifetime.

Future-proof lockers save money over time by improving efficiency, reducing staff workload, and adapting to evolving technology and workflows. To get an accurate view of costs, account for staff time spent managing devices and user downtime due to manual processes.

Durable lockers that offer flexible workflows — from public charging to break/fix and check-in/check-out programs — reduce the need for frequent replacements. Regular software and firmware updates also extend the system’s value, but be sure to check if ongoing licensing or renewal fees apply.

Warranty, hardware longevity, and customer service significantly impact long-term costs. Some manufacturers offer only limited warranty periods, even at higher price points. Since high-usage lockers may eventually need repairs, consider the cost of replacement parts, labor, and ease of in-field servicing when comparing solutions.

How to lower your smart locker costs

Technology innovations are providing new ways for organisations to save money by giving time back to successful executives, managers, employees, students and teachers. Instead of concluding that smart locker prices are too high, consider how a smart locker can lower your total mobile device program costs and headaches over time.

Remember that the mid-range price level is a good place to start your research. These lockers will have important features you need and the flexibility to grow with you in the future.

FAQ

How much does a smart charging locker cost?

Smart charging lockers typically cost between $3,000 and $12,000, depending on the size, number of compartments, built-in charging features, and software capabilities. High-end models with advanced cloud functionality can exceed $12,000.

Do smart lockers require a subscription?

Most smart locker systems include a cloud-based platform for remote access, user management, and audit logs. This usually requires a recurring monthly or annual subscription, depending on the vendor and features enabled.

Can I rent or lease a smart locker system?

Yes, some providers offer rental or lease-to-own options. These are ideal for schools and businesses that want to test the solution before fully committing or need to manage costs over time.

What’s the difference between low-cost and mid-range lockers?

Low-cost lockers are typically not connected to the cloud and lack automation features. Mid-range lockers include secure charging, cloud management, and support common workflows like loaner device exchanges and unattended check-in/check-out.

Can I buy just one smart locker?

Yes! Some vendors offer small systems with as few as 1–5 bays. However, most IT teams invest in larger configurations to support shared use, reduce cost per bay, and accommodate future scaling.

What factors affect smart locker pricing?