PostNL Wants to Switch to Delivering Mail Every Other Day
PostNL Wants to Switch to Delivering Mail Every Other Day
PostNL is considering alternate-day delivery as part of adapting to the changing postal landscape
The Dutch postal service, PostNL, is considering changing its delivery system to alternate-day delivery. This shift is due to a decline in traditional mail volume and a shortage of delivery personnel.
This proposed change aims to maintain reliable, affordable, and accessible delivery services amidst changing consumer habits and technological advancements. The Director of PostNL's Postal Service, Maurice Unck, has stated that customers will be informed about which postcodes will receive deliveries on specific days to ensure a seamless transition.
However, PostNL requires an amendment to the Dutch postal law, known as the Postwet, to implement this alternate-day delivery system. While this shift may cause concerns for customers who rely on daily mail delivery, especially for important documents or correspondence, PostNL believes that adapting to these changes is crucial for the long-term sustainability of its operations. The company suggests offering priority delivery at a higher price to accommodate urgent mail needs while reducing the strain on limited resources.
PostNL's proposed changes come after facing challenges with declining mail volumes, increasing costs, changing consumer demands, and labour market shortages. The company aims to transition towards a service level where standard mail can be delivered within two to three days, rather than the current requirement of within 24 hours.
This adjustment aligns with practices in other European countries and seeks to secure the financial viability of the Dutch postal service while meeting the needs of customers and consumers in a changing landscape.