The Shift from Warenpost to Small Parcel: What Does It Mean for Your Business?
The logistics and shipping industry is constantly evolving, requiring businesses to adapt their processes accordingly. One of the latest developments is the transition from Warenpost to Small Parcel shipping.
But what exactly does this change mean for your business – and what are the potential advantages and disadvantages?
Why the Change?
Many businesses have relied on Warenpost as a cost-effective way to ship lightweight items quickly. However, changes in shipping regulations, rising costs, and updated carrier policies now make the shift to small parcels increasingly necessary.
International shipments, in particular, are subject to stricter compliance rules, making this transition unavoidable for many companies.
As of March 1, 2025, DHL has officially replaced national Warenpost with its new small parcel service. The transition is automatic, with a grace period in place. Once businesses have negotiated individual terms with DHL, they can make targeted adjustments to align their shipping model with the new requirements.
Key Differences
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Size & Weight
While Warenpost was tailored for smaller, lightweight shipments, the new small parcel service allows for larger dimensions. The maximum parcel height has increased from 5 cm to 8 cm, giving merchants more flexibility in packaging. -
Pricing
Small parcels may come at a higher cost, but they often offer more robust shipping options and additional services. In times of rising operational costs, this switch can be a more sustainable and secure long-term solution. -
Tracking & Insurance
Small parcels typically come with enhanced tracking and better default insurance. DHL, for example, now includes liability coverage up to €20 per shipment. -
Shipping of Hazardous Goods
Unlike Warenpost, small parcel shipping now allows for the transport of limited quantity (LQ) hazardous goods from the very first shipment, providing significant advantages for specific industries. -
Delivery Times
While Warenpost often offered faster delivery, small parcels are usually delivered within two business days. Businesses should factor this into their logistics planning. -
Customer Flexibility
Starting March 1, 2025, DHL will enable greater adaptability to evolving customer needs, such as parcel hold and stop options, giving merchants more control over the delivery process.
Benefits of Switching to Small Parcels
✅ Improved security thanks to better tracking and insurance coverage
✅ Greater flexibility in packaging and shipping options
✅ Fewer size and weight restrictions, enabling a broader product range
✅ More professional customer experience through enhanced service and more reliable delivery
✅ New options for shipping hazardous goods (LQ) that were previously unavailable
How to Adapt Effectively
- Recalculate shipping costs – Evaluate any potential additional costs and adjust your pricing strategy to remain competitive without compromising your margins.
- Use efficient packaging – Choose packaging that minimizes excess volume. This helps reduce shipping costs and supports your sustainability goals.
- Update customer communication – Inform your customers early about possible changes in shipping fees or delivery times to manage expectations and avoid confusion.
- Leverage new opportunities for hazardous goods – If your business deals with hazardous materials, the new regulations can open up simplified and more cost-effective shipping options.
Conclusion
The switch from Warenpost to Kleinpaket may present initial challenges, but it also opens up valuable opportunities. Businesses that prepare properly can streamline their shipping operations and benefit from improved service in the long term. It’s worth analyzing all available options, transitioning strategically, and adapting shipping structures to remain both cost-efficient and customer-friendly.
With this change, DHL has introduced a more flexible shipping solution that gives merchants a broader range of options. Enhanced liability coverage, increased package dimensions, and the ability to ship hazardous goods now create new possibilities—especially for businesses with specialized logistics needs.
A proactive and well-planned transition can not only strengthen your business against market fluctuations, but also enhance delivery quality and customer satisfaction over time. So plan ahead and turn this shift into a competitive advantage for your e-commerce success.
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