August 3, 2022, 8:03 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The mail carrier comes by almost every day on a bicycle, and occasionally, delivery drivers in vans drop off packages. This is a familiar scene here. But that could soon change.
A major shift is on the horizon for all mail carriers. According to research by “WELT am Sonntag,” Deutsche Post is planning to change its delivery system. This involves the concept of “combined delivery.” TECHBOOK explains what this means for the traditional mail carrier and all recipients.
Overview
Combined delivery is already underway and will be expanded
Combined delivery refers to the delivery of packages and letters by the same carrier. According to “WELT am Sonntag,” this model has been partially implemented since 2018, with half of the 120,000 package carriers already delivering both. Contrary to what one might think, this principle is not used in big cities but has proven effective mainly in suburban areas.
According to an internal document titled “Planning Guide for the Delivery Network of the Future,” cited by “WELT am Sonntag,” the share of combined deliveries is expected to increase further by 2025. By then, 75 percent of all letters and packages are to be delivered together.
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Decline of letters prompts change
The reason for the increase in combined delivery, according to “WELT am Sonntag,” is the changing ratio of letters to packages. Package shipping is rising sharply, while fewer letters are being sent. The following numbers illustrate this clearly. In 2010, there were 20 letters sent for every package. By 2030, it is projected to be one letter per package.
The reasons are self-explanatory. On one hand, e-commerce is booming, leading to a multitude of packages. The rise of Amazon is emblematic of this. On the other hand, many companies are saving on traditional mail, especially for advertising, and opting for more cost-effective emails.
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Many mail carriers could lose their jobs
At least that’s what the DPV communication union anticipates. Speaking to “WELT am Sonntag,” they mention a consolidation of personnel, which has already led to job cuts in the past. The Post itself disputes this and announced that no jobs will be cut due to combined delivery. Customers are also not expected to face any disadvantages. However, the carriers themselves fear increased physical strain.