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With the transition from Warenpost to DHL Kleinpaket starting on January 1, 2025, a significant change is coming for e-commerce businesses. The new shipping option offers many benefits but also introduces new challenges for retailers.

Benefits of DHL Kleinpaket

Many of the advantages of Warenpost will still be available with DHL Kleinpaket, including:

  • Cost Efficiency: Although costs might increase, this will still be an affordable shipping option for small items up to 8 cm in height.

  • Liability: Unlike Warenpost, which offered no liability and limited tracking, DHL Kleinpaket will include comprehensive tracking and liability up to €20.

  • Additional Services: Notification of shipments, delivery to a safe place, and neighbor delivery without extra fees.

  • Flexible Delivery Options: Direct addressing to parcel lockers and store routing to reduce return costs.

  • Sustainability: Unlike DHL's Warenpost, e-commerce businesses will be able to opt for GoGreen (+€0,01) and GoGreen Plus (+€0,03) services to reduce their carbon footprint.

  • Transparency: DHL Kleinpaket allows to stay on top of things with scanning points across the delivery. This includes 1) Announcement of the delivery, 2) Distribution Center, 3) Delivery of the parcel including the method (mailbox, direct handover, redirection to the parcel shop, delivery not possible, etc.), at the pickup point, or the post office.

By the way, Warenpost International already offers some of these benefits - like liability of up to €20 and climate-neutral shipping. 

Shipping Details for DHL Kleinpaket


The shipping details of DHL Kleinpaket will remain the same as Warenpost, according to DHL's information.

  • Dimensions: Minimum size of 10 x 7 x 0.1 cm and maximum size of 35.3 x 25 x 8 cm.

  • Weight: Up to 1 kg per shipment.

  • Delivery Time: Standard transit time of two business days (Monday to Saturday).

  • Collection and Delivery: Collection is included for businesses with over 6,000 shipments per year.

Integration and Usage

DHL Kleinpaket will integrate seamlessly into the existing DHL business customer portal, where retailers can:

  • Create shipping labels

  • Track shipment status

  • Manage returns

Adjustments to IT systems are minimal, mainly related to the new product name.

Labeling Requirements

DHL Kleinpaket requires specific labeling and separate handling to ensure smooth processing. Here are the key details you need to know:

  • Common Label: Use the standard Common Label, sized 10 x 20 cm.

  • Small Parcel Label: For small shipments, use the special label in 7 x 10 cm format.

Separate Delivery Instructions

  • Separation from Other Shipments: Ensure that DHL small parcels are kept separate from other types of shipments.

  • Sorting by Height: Sort parcels based on their height into two categories: less than 3 cm and between 3-8 cm.

  • Container Labeling: Deliver the small parcels in clearly labeled containers.

 

 

When Will DHL Kleinpaket Be Available?

The DHL Kleinpaket shipping option will be introduced on January 1, 2025, and will automatically replace Warenpost for current users. Labels with the Warenpost designation will continue to be accepted until April 1, 2025.

Potential Differences Compared to Warenpost

With the shift from Warenpost to Kleinpaket, several key conditions will change, particularly for retailers with small margins or high shipping volumes:

Pricing: The costs for DHL Kleinpaket will be significantly higher compared to Warenpost:

  • 200–999 shipments: €3.19 each
  • 1,000 - 2,999 shipments: €3.09 each
  • From 3,000 shipments: €2.99 each
(For comparison: Warenpost from €2.95). Note that the prices may vary depending on individual contracts or be changed over time.

 

Additional Charges:

  • Energy Surcharge: 1.25% per shipment
  • Peak Surcharge: €0.19 per package (applies in November and December)
  • Returns Shipments: €2,00 per shipment
Delivery Time: Delivery time extends from one to two working days.

Availability and Network Structure: It remains unclear whether DHL Kleinpaket will still be transported within the mail network or moved to the parcel network, which could impact delivery times and the availability of pickup points.

Customer Confusion: The switch from Warenpost to Kleinpaket may lead to confusion among end customers, especially if different shipping options coexist.


Who Is DHL Kleinpaket Suitable For?

This product is ideal for e-commerce companies shipping small, lightweight items within Germany. Industries that could benefit include:

  • Electronics: Accessories like charging cables, and phone cases.

  • Pet Supplies: Toys or small bags of food.

  • Jewelry: Earrings, necklaces.

  • Supplements and Cosmetics: Small containers or sample sizes.

Important: A minimum shipping volume of 200 parcels per year is required to use this product.

Conclusion

DHL Kleinpaket is a modern, customer-friendly solution for shipping small goods, tailored specifically to the needs of e-commerce retailers. While the increased size limits and included insurance offer advantages, retailers should be mindful of the higher costs and extended delivery times.

With these changes, DHL ensures that shipping small parcels remains sustainable, secure, and flexible—meeting the demands of modern e-commerce.

For more information, click here.