DHL, the market leader, introduces a new pricing category for especially heavy packages. Behind this, there is a clear legislative change.
Due to Postal Law Reform - DHL changes parcel offer - for the protection of the delivery personnel
Following the Postlaw reform, market leader DHL has changed its parcel prices. According to the Bonn corporation's announcement, there will be a category for parcels between 10 and 20 kg (18.99 Euro for domestic shipping) and a category for 20 to 31.5 kg (23.99 Euro). Previously, there was only one category (19.99 Euro) - regardless of whether the parcel weighed ten kg or three times that.
The Federal Government recently revised the outdated Postlaw. Among other things, parcels over 10 kg must now be labeled. This is intended to prevent postal workers from carrying heavy parcels and developing back problems. The law provides different labeling for the weight classes over 10 kg and over 20 kg - this differentiation prompts DHL to adjust its product range slightly.
DHL to assist delivery persons with heavy parcels
According to the law, parcels over 20 kg should usually be delivered by two people - unless there are suitable technical aids, in which case single-person delivery is also allowed. The Federal Labor Ministry is supposed to determine exactly what these technical aids are by the end of the year. According to SPD and Green politicians, a simple sack cart will not be sufficient.
DHL was formerly known as Deutsche Post DHL. The mail division of the internationally active logistics provider is still called Deutsche Post in Germany.
With the amendment to the Postlaw, DHL is required to follow the new labeling regulations for parcels weighing over 10 kg and over 20 kg. To comply with this legislation amendment, DHL is planning to introduce additional pricing categories for these weight classes in their product range.
Considering the forthcoming guidelines from the Federal Labor Ministry regarding suitable technical aids for single-person delivery of heavy parcels, DHL may need to incorporate necessary adjustments in their logistics operations to ensure compliance and improved ergonomics for their delivery personnel.