Frankfurt

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Postal Services

Details about mailing services in Frankfurt, including how to send letters and packages, as well as local post offices.

Sections

Overview of Postal Services in Frankfurt

Frankfurt, as a major city in Germany, has a well-organized and efficient postal system primarily operated by Deutsche Post, the national postal service provider. Deutsche Post offers a wide range of services, including domestic and international mail, package delivery, express shipping, and additional services like registered mail and money transfers. Private courier companies such as DHL (a subsidiary of Deutsche Post), UPS, FedEx, and Hermes also operate in Frankfurt.

Types of Services Offered

  1. Mail Services:

    • Standard Letters: For sending documents or small items domestically or internationally.
    • Postcards: A popular and affordable option for sending greetings.
    • Registered Mail (Einschreiben): Provides proof of mailing and delivery.
    • Express Mail (Expressbrief): For urgent deliveries, both domestic and international.

  2. Package Services:

    • DHL Paket: For domestic and international package delivery.
    • Express Shipping: Faster delivery options for time-sensitive packages.
    • Parcel Lockers (Packstation): Self-service lockers for sending and receiving packages.

  3. Special Services:

    • Money Transfers: Through Western Union at select post offices.
    • Post Office Boxes (Postfach): Rentable for secure mail storage.
    • Redirection Services (Nachsendeauftrag): Forwarding mail to a new address.
    • Customs Handling: Assistance with international packages subject to customs.

  4. Digital Services:

    • Online Postage: Purchase and print postage at home via the Deutsche Post website or app.
    • Tracking: Track letters and packages online or via the app.

Costs for Domestic and International Mail

Domestic Mail (within Germany):

  • Standard Letter (up to 20g): โ‚ฌ0.85
  • Compact Letter (up to 50g): โ‚ฌ1.00
  • Large Letter (up to 500g): โ‚ฌ1.60
  • Maxi Letter (up to 1kg): โ‚ฌ2.75
  • Postcard: โ‚ฌ0.85

International Mail:

  • Standard Letter (up to 20g): โ‚ฌ1.10 (Europe), โ‚ฌ1.20 (Worldwide)
  • Compact Letter (up to 50g): โ‚ฌ1.70 (Europe), โ‚ฌ1.90 (Worldwide)
  • Postcard: โ‚ฌ1.10 (Europe), โ‚ฌ1.20 (Worldwide)

Packages:

  • Domestic Packages:
    • Up to 2kg: โ‚ฌ4.99
    • Up to 5kg: โ‚ฌ6.99
    • Up to 10kg: โ‚ฌ9.49
  • International Packages:
    • Europe (up to 2kg): โ‚ฌ9.00
    • Worldwide (up to 2kg): โ‚ฌ16.00
    • Larger packages vary by weight and destination.

Additional Services:

  • Registered Mail (Einschreiben): โ‚ฌ2.65 (added to postage cost).
  • Express Delivery: Starts at โ‚ฌ10.00 for domestic, higher for international.

Note: Prices are accurate as of October 2023 but may vary slightly. Always check the Deutsche Post website for the latest rates.

How to Send and Receive Packages

Sending Mail/Packages:

  1. Prepare Your Item:

    • Use appropriate envelopes or boxes. Packaging materials are available at post offices.
    • Ensure the address is written clearly in the correct format:
      • Recipient's Name
      • Street Name and Number
      • Postal Code and City
      • Country (for international mail)

  2. Purchase Postage:

    • At a post office counter.
    • Via self-service machines available at many post offices.
    • Online through the Deutsche Post website or app.

  3. Drop Off:

    • Use yellow postboxes for letters and small parcels.
    • Drop off larger packages at a post office or DHL Packstation.

Receiving Mail/Packages:

  • Home Delivery: Most mail and packages are delivered directly to your address.
  • Missed Delivery: If you are not home, you will receive a notification card. You can pick up your package at the specified post office or arrange redelivery.
  • Packstation: If you are registered for this service, you can collect packages from a nearby locker.

Locations and Operating Hours of Post Offices

Frankfurt has numerous post offices and postal service points. Here are some key locations:

  1. Main Post Office (Hauptpostamt):

    • Address: Zeil 112-114, 60313 Frankfurt am Main
    • Hours: Mondayโ€“Friday: 9:00 AMโ€“6:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AMโ€“1:00 PM

  2. Post Office at Frankfurt Central Station (Hauptbahnhof):

    • Address: Im Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main
    • Hours: Mondayโ€“Friday: 8:00 AMโ€“8:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AMโ€“6:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AMโ€“4:00 PM

  3. DHL Packstations:

    • Locations: Found throughout the city, including near major train stations and shopping areas.
    • Access: 24/7 (requires registration for use).

Tip: Use the Deutsche Post website or app to locate the nearest post office or Packstation.

Special Procedures or Requirements

  1. Customs for International Packages:

    • When sending packages outside the EU, you must complete a customs declaration form (CN22 or CN23) detailing the contents and value.
    • Recipients of international packages may need to pay customs duties or VAT upon delivery.

  2. Identification:

    • For registered mail, package pickup, or money transfers, you must present a valid ID (passport, national ID card, or residence permit).

  3. Packstation Registration:

    • To use Packstations, you must register online with DHL and receive a customer card.

Cultural and Practical Tips

  1. Be Punctual: Germans value punctuality, so ensure you visit post offices during operating hours. Avoid last-minute visits close to closing time.
  2. Self-Service Machines: Many post offices have self-service machines for buying stamps and sending packages. These are user-friendly and often have English language options.
  3. Yellow Postboxes: These are widely available throughout Frankfurt. Check the collection times listed on the box to ensure timely delivery.
  4. Efficient Addressing: Always double-check the address format, especially for international mail. Incorrect or incomplete addresses can lead to delays.
  5. Public Holidays: Post offices are closed on public holidays, so plan accordingly.
  6. Eco-Friendly Options: Deutsche Post offers climate-neutral shipping options (GoGreen) for an additional fee.

Useful Resources

By following this guide, you should have no trouble navigating the postal services in Frankfurt. Whether youโ€™re sending a postcard or shipping a package internationally, the system is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. Let me know if you need further assistance!