Hermes Germany launches small package delivery service
Hermes Logistics Group Germany has launched a new flat-rate parcel delivery service today, geared specifically to the sending of smaller items. The new Packchen (Package) service went live today, extending the Hamburg-based company’s services for the first time into a segment it said had not been represented – consumer-to-consumer shipments.
Offering two-to-three-day delivery, the service is designed around a simple flat-rate box for items up to 25kg in weight and up to 37cm long.
Pricing will be EUR 3.80 if purchased online or EUR 4.00 for items sent via one of the company’s 14,000 PaketShop stores.
With online retail in mind, the service will include detailed tracking and insurance among its extras, while Hermes couriers will attempt to deliver a package to the door four times before it is returned as undelivered.
Hermes Germany said it was seeking to be only firm in Germany to provide an affordable service for small packages including such features.
Security and convenience
Frank Iden, the Hermes Germany chief executive, said the new service had been designed with both security and convenience in mind.
“That’s why we are liable for any shipment worth up to EUR 50,” he explained. “Although in this class it’s mainly small and inexpensive items that are shipped, customer surveys have shown that the issue of security holds enormous importance, so liability is absolutely required.”
Customers will be able to track their parcel through the myhermes.de website, while flexibility in delivery will be ensured by the policy of making four delivery attempts, the company said, adding that a recipient would therefore avoid having to travel to a Hermes store to pick up their parcel if they are not home to receive it.
“We want the parcel market to open up for us, and the customer in this segment also needs more support,” said Iden.
“As goods become smaller, this kind of business will represent half of private package shipping volumes, so our package service is extremely attractive.”
