GLS has become the latest parcels company in Germany to raise rates by announcing a 5.8 per centincrease as of April 1, 2013.
The parcels operator said today that the 5.8 per cent average increase would cover contractcustomers for domestic and international shipments. Prices for private customers, both in ParcelShops and online, will remain unchanged.
“Costs have gone up considerably in the last few years,” explained Rico Back, CEO of the GLSGroup. This refers both to significantly higher staff costs as well as expenses for freightcapacity, energy and insurance. Another major cost factor is the handling in the depots and thedelivery. GLS has made targeted investments to improve the conditions for transport companies andtheir drivers in local and long-haul traffic.
“Cost increases can no longer be compensated by better efficiency,” Back said. GLS said thatit will again invest in its network, technical equipment and IT this year.
Several leading parcel companies have already announced higher prices for business customersin Germany this year due to higher operating costs. DPD has raised prices by 6 per cent on averageand trans-o-flex will increase rates by 5.5 per cent.
