DPD takes Predict cross-border for five EU nations

European parcel network DPD is expanding its Predict service to cover international shipments between Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and Slovakia. The company, part of La Poste’s international parcel subsidiary GeoPost Group, had been successfully providing the Predict service domestically within various European countries.

The service allows recipients of parcels to specify the day on which their parcel is to be delivered. They are then notified by email or text message regarding the time window during which their parcel will arrive, with the system then allowing the recipient to rearrange delivery if required.

“Together with the growth in cross-border distance selling, the need for convenient services for the consignors and consignees of international shipping is also growing,” said DPD CEO Arnold Schroven.

“Thanks to our international Predict service shippers of cross-border parcels can provide their customers with a unique offer. DPD now plans to extend this unique service to more European countries”.

DPD has said its Predict service in the UK – where recipients are given a one-hour delivery window – has won the company around GBP 500m in new business.

The cross-border Predict service between the five continental European countries will see DPD offering consignees at least three alternative delivery days.

Recipients will be informed on the morning of the delivery day regarding a two-to-six hour delivery window.

DPD said good communication channels with consignees meant “significantly” reducing the number of unsuccessful delivery attempts, saving time and money as well as carbon emissions.

“Predict ensures satisfied consignees,” said Schroven, adding: “Because successful first delivery attempts reduce the number of returns in distance selling, shippers have welcomed the service with enthusiasm.”

Schroven said the expansion of the Predict service was in line with the European Union’s intentions to promote international ecommerce.