DHL is testing self-service “parcel postboxes” in Germany that enable consumers to post pre-paidsmall packages and larger parcels without having to visit a post office.
DHL Germany has installed 40 “Paketboxes” at heavily frequented locations in and aroundFrankfurt/Main for the trial period lasting until January 2007. After a successful test phase, thePaketboxes will be introduced across the country, parent Deutsche Post World Net announced. Asmaller number of “Pack & Go” machines selling pre-paid packaging are also being tested.
The DHL Paketboxes accept small packages and parcels weighing up to 20kg and measuring up to60 x 40 x 40 centimetres in size. Consumers can pay for the parcels using Paketmarken (parcellabels) that can be bought online or in post offices. Prices depend on the parcel weight. The boxeswill be emptied once a day Monday through Saturday – if necessary, even several times a day.
“With the Paketbox, we are expanding the service for our private customers with aninteresting alternative and demonstrate once again why DHL is the leader in the express andlogistics market,” said Boris Mayer, marketing manager for private customer business at DHL ExpressGermany.
“The new boxes are not competing with the Packstations,” Mayer emphasized. Customers can notonly deposit their shipments 24 hours a day at over 700 Packstations across the country, they canalso pick up their shipments there and buy postage for small packages and parcels as well.
