A package handling system for use with a plurality of packages having package identification thereon. The system of one embodiment comprises processing stations where packages having heterogeneous contents are processed. One or more identifiers are positioned at the processing stations to detect the package identifications associated with the packages. A controller is coupled to the identifier to receive identification information about a package and detected by the identifier. The controller is coupled to the data input device to receive first package data related to an actual condition of the package. The controller has second package data related to acceptable package conditions. The controller uses the first and second package data to determine if the package is in a kickout condition. The controller can receive second package data from the independent data sources for comparison with the first package data, the controller automatically initiates processing instructions related to the processing of the package or feedback communication with at least one of the data sources.