Australia Post has launched a modern post office format designed to make sending, collecting and returning packages faster and more convenient, as well as the cheapest delivery options in the parcel category.
National Mail System announced last month that the new store, known as Australia’s Post Parcels, is committed to parcels and promotes fast customer communications with 24/7 self-select options and a secure 24/7 parcel locker and offers greater flexibility.
Australia Post has opened two next-generation post offices, and two more locations are planned to open soon.
“The first reason the post office visits the post office is to collect packages, so we make it easier to collect and send packages and send packages faster. With online shopping in Australia being more online than ever, we are constantly growing our network to keep our customers using the postal service.”
According to Australian Post research, more than 9.8 million households in Australia spent time shopping online last year. Postal Services is expanding e-commerce services in response to the increase in digital sales directly to consumers. International Postal Company reported Thursday that the parcel business grew 2.1% for revenues for postal operators worldwide last year.
Australian Post parcels combine in-person assistance with options for self-service such as parcel lockers. Many locations will also have special 24/7 self-service areas accessible via a one-time entry code generated in the Australian Post app. This option allows customers to enter space outside of normal working hours and send packages when they fit.
Customers can collect or return to purchase online. The trial site also comes with 24/7 accessible vending machines that include packaging, stamps and other mailing essentials.
Next-generation formats are designed to be flexible and scalable, with some with smaller physical footprints as well as effective backend arrangements to manage increased parcel volumes.
The Australian Post said it conducted extensive customer surveys and behavioral research to ensure the new format meets customer needs while also providing capabilities for future network growth.
Australia Post’s new parcel post office comes with parcel lockers, giving customers greater flexibility or putting down packages. (Photo: Australian Post)
Based on parcel data, local sending and receiving modes, and proximity to other nearby post offices, the pilot location was carefully selected, where full service is still available.
Meanwhile, Australia Post started offering the lowest price delivery options for parcels (extra small packages) last week, aiming to help small businesses reduce costs and compete more effectively in the super competitive e-commerce market.
Excess parcels are available online and at post offices across the country to cater to lightweight items such as accessories and cosmetics. Prices for business accounts start at $3.82, regular services are $6.37, and fast delivery is $8.33.
The Australian Post said it is responding to customers’ demand for more affordable shipping options, especially from micro sellers.
Protect the dog attack
In related news, mail carriers applauded new legislation passed by the South Australian government that significantly increased penalties for dog owners who caused serious harm to pets or public harm. Under the new law, if a dog owner attacks a person after being labeled as a dangerous dog, the dog owner could face a fine of up to $32,800. The Australian Post says more than 44 mail operators (postal in local jargon) are subject to dog-related attacks and harassment. The frequency of package delivery continues to increase, resulting in nearly 40% of dog encounters occurring on the client’s property.
To reduce the risk of mailing operators, the Australian Post said it will provide samron spray for all delivery personnel by the end of July. If an imminent dog attacks, the water-based harmless spray will serve as the last safety tool. The deterrent temporarily distracts the dog, gives the mail carrier extra time to be safe, and calls the owner for help.
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The Australian Post Post launched a parcel-only post office, first appearing on FreightWaves.
