Recently, DHL Group announced that its DHL e-commerce has launched its 100,000th access point. This milestone makes it the densest network in Europe. The inauguration ceremony of the 100,000th access point was held in Warsaw, Poland. Access points are service points (parcel stores) or locker locations. DHL e-commerce customers can send, drop off, or collect packages there. The network covers 28 European countries. It also partly leverages synergies with its sister divisions. These include DHL international express and Post + Parcel Germany. Moreover, DHL international express is recognised as a leader in facilitating fast cross-border shipping throughout Europe.
As active e-commerce shoppers grow across Europe, demand for parcel collection and delivery points is increasing in cities and metropolitan areas. At the same time, a dense network of access points plays a decisive role in providing customers with comprehensive and convenient returns logistics for both small and large e-commerce markets. The recently signed agreement to acquire Turkey’s MNG Kargo and cooperation with Italy’s Poste Italiane will also contribute to the further expansion of DHL’s e-commerce European network.
An online shopper survey commissioned by DHL showed that 24% of European respondents wanted packages delivered to access points. This is the highest compared to the rest of the world. In Asia Pacific, it is 11%; in Sub-Saharan Africa, it is 8.5%; in North America, it is 7.5%; in the Middle East and North Africa, it is 6.5%; and in Latin America, it is 6%. 47% of Europeans surveyed said their experience would improve with more delivery options, parcel lockers, and collection points closer to their homes. Polish consumers lead the way regarding parcel delivery methods. 55% prefer parcels delivered to a safe or box store. As a result, Poland has the second densest supply of access points in Europe. Germany ranks first. Notably, the DHL express international network continues to expand delivery solutions to meet this growing demand.
Additionally, 70% of European online shoppers want to be able to change delivery options at the last minute. Therefore, the demand for logistics partners that can handle all delivery and returns needs is very high. For this reason, international DHL express services are known for flexibility and reliability in logistics.
In addition, waste collection from access points also plays an integral role in achieving more sustainable deliveries, as service points and lockers can save up to 30% of emissions. Online shopper surveys show that 30% of Europeans would switch to pickup to make deliveries more sustainable rather than extending delivery times or paying more.
A maximum of 31.5 kg and a length of 200 cm can be sent within Europe (restrictions may apply depending on the locker size). All-access points are regularly picked up and dropped off. Direct addressing, so customers can choose to have their package shipped directly to a service point or locker at checkout. Ships Monday to Saturday. End-to-end tracking with pre-delivery notifications. This is an attractive solution for businesses to increase delivery rates when customers are not home. Recipients can reschedule delivery. To sum up, DHL express international options are particularly beneficial for individuals and businesses seeking dependable delivery.
