German postal firms set for traffic rule exemptions
Postal companies competing with Deutsche Post could gain new traffic privileges under a new version of the Highway Code being considered by the German Bundesrat (Federal Council) next month. Proposals put forward by the government’s Ministry of Transport include provisions that would allow postal vehicles to enjoy the same kind of exemptions to traffic rules as the universal service provider.
This could include the ability to drive in pedestrian zones and double-park in a street when collecting mail, when suitable parking is not available close to a mailbox.
The relaxation in the rules would be available only for postal operators suitably licensed, and only where the company’s vehicles – or those of its subcontractors – are clearly identified as being suitably licensed.
A vehicle would have to be within a range of 10 metres of the mailbox for the allowance to apply.
However, it appears that the benefits would only be available to companies collecting letters, not parcels.
“Commendable”
The mail, courier and express industry association BdKEP said this week that the proposals were “commendable”. The group said if the Federal Council approves the new Highway Code, it would be one more area where competitors to Deutsche Post are treated the same as the market-dominant operator, leaving Deutsche Post with few advantages other than certain tax exemptions.
Rudolf Pfeiffer, the BdKEP chairman, said: “Finally here is a legitimate regulation – although parcels are not yet being considered within it – that will be supportive of the public service.”
The Federal Council’s transport committee will be considering the revisions to the Highway Code on 5th September.
The proposals will also include government attempts to reduce the “forest of signs” adorning German roads, after public criticism at the level of signage facing German motorists at the moment.
The BdKEP said after careful preparation by the Ministry of Transport, it was confident of the revision to the Highway Code being passed.
