GLS Germany uses parcel shops as alternative delivery points

GLS has started to use its network of 5,000 parcel shops in Germany as alternative delivery points when private customers are not at home to receive their shipments. The new service responds to the boom in online orders from e-commerce.

In case there are no neighbors available to receive a parcel during the absence of the recipient, the GLS driver leaves a delivery note at the recipient’s home, takes the parcel to the nearest GLS parcel shop, and transfers the delivery information into the GLS IT system immediately after dropping off the parcel.

The customer can check that the parcel has arrived in the shop by using the Track-ID to make an online query on the GLS website, or via SMS or phone. He or she can then pick up the shipment in the GLS parcel shop by showing the delivery note and an ID card. The shipment can be picked up from the parcel shop within nine days of its delivery there.

If none of the 5,000 parcel shops in Germany is located close to the recipient’s address, GLS makes a second delivery attempt to the home address.

GLS said the alternative delivery to parcel shops was tested in a regional pilot scheme and was widely accepted by customers. The first experiences in nationwide operations from April onwards were also positive. Hardly any parcel stays longer than two days in the parcel shop before being collected, according to GLS.

“Initially, we established GLS parcel shops to ensure safe, quick and reasonably priced delivery for private and business customers shipping smaller quantities,” explained Klaus Conrad, managing director of GLS Germany. “Our parcel shops are located in businesses throughout all industry sectors, from kiosks and bicycle shops to petrol stations.”