Delivery times for letters in Germany will be extended. In the future, 95 percent of standard letters in basic services are expected to reach the recipient by the third working day, and 99 percent should be in the mailbox by the fourth working day.
This means that delivery on the fourth day is "practically guaranteed," emphasized the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs. It is also noted that the extension of the delivery period will keep letter prices at an affordable level and ensure nationwide coverage six days a week throughout Germany.
How much will letter delivery times increase in Germany
The current situation, where 80 percent of letters are supposed to be delivered the next working day, is considered too expensive, especially considering the sharp reduction in the volume of letters. Costs will have to be spread over a decreasing number of letters. Most communication today is done electronically.
Another advantage of extended delivery times: Deutsche Post can avoid climate-damaging night flights within Germany. According to the ministry, Deutsche Post serves as the universal service provider for sending letters in Germany.
In early August, the Federal Network Agency rejected Deutsche Post's application for an early increase in the cost of postal services for the year 2024. The company cited "sharp cost increases due to inflation and higher energy prices" as the reasons for the application.
In addition to this, a high level of collective bargaining was noted in 2023, along with a significant reduction in letter volumes. After the rejection, the company has already stated its intention to deliver standard letters much more slowly.
According to Deutsche Post's proposal, so-called priority letters may arrive the next day after their dispatch. In this case, the price should be higher than the current postal expenses.
The ministry acknowledged that an increase in letter delivery prices is already anticipated. The amendment introduces an upper limit aimed at preventing excessive growth in cost.
The Postal Law was introduced in the 1990s. The ministry explained that the amendment is "belated." Now, changes should be made as soon as possible, preferably within this year.
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The current delivery time of 80% of letters being delivered the next working day is considered too expensive due to the sharp reduction in letter volume and the need to spread costs over fewer letters. Another advantage of extended delivery times is that Deutsche Post can avoid conducting climate-damaging night flights within Germany.
