DPD to dump sellers with oversize parcels

[TrueBlueTerrier]

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We’ve heard disturbing news that DPD/Interlink Express are working hard to reduce none compatible parcels going through their system in the run up to the busy Christmas period. Translated this means that if they don’t like your shipping profile they might close your account.

DPD have a “compatible parcel” profile that they like, which means parcels no bigger than 60 x 60 x 60cm with no exposed plastic banding, shrink wrap or bubble wrap. Basically they like boxes as this makes handling by machine or by hand easy and anything else is classed as “not compatible” and should be shipped as freight and not next day parcel. They have also pointed out that they are not a freight courier and so DPD will only allow up to 5% of your shipping to be none standard.

What this means for you is that, if you send oversized parcels or items which aren’t boxed, you might suddenly find yourself without a courier this Christmas. We’ve heard from one seller who had a contract stating parcels up to 1m in length were acceptable, but has now been told 60cm is the longest allowable and apparently his contract is to be ended with a couple of weeks notice.

Have you received any notification from DPD (or any courier) about tighter restrictions being introduced for your shipping profile?

Whilst it’s likely that it’s a relatively small number of retailers who DPD are clamping down on, it’s the worst possible time of year to lose your courier. Our best advice as always is to make sure that you’ve alternative couriers ready to use especially as Christmas approaches.