"Immediate return" - the direct return to sender

With the service "Immediate return", time-critical and sensitive goods are automatically returned to you following an unsuccessful initial delivery. This allows you to regain access to them quickly and flexibly.

Benefits of "Immediate return"

  • Protection of time-critical and sensitive goods

  • Rapid availability and flexibility regarding the next steps

  • Higher quality assurance

Are you interested in shipping your sensitive goods safely with the "Immediate return" service?

I am already a business customer of DHL Paket and would like to send goods with "Immediate return".

To the Post & DHL Business Customer Portal

I am not yet a business customer of DHL Paket but am interested in sending goods with "Immediate return".

Become business customer

Following an unsuccessful first delivery attempt - where delivery to the front door, a Preferred location, or an alternative recipient (such as a neighbor) is not possible - time-sensitive and sensitive products are not held for pickup at a Packstation or a postal retail outlet; instead, they are automatically and immediately returned to the sender's address.

Direct delivery, as well as active redirection of the parcel by the recipient to a Packstation, a postal retail outlet, or a parcel shop, remain possible.

"Immediate return" allows you, the sender, to react directly - for example, by quickly rescheduling the shipment, arranging for storage, or proceeding with further processing - ensuring your products remain under your control. Furthermore, you reduce the risk of spoilage, damage, or loss of value for your goods.

The "Immediate return" service is already included in your contract and can be ordered directly via DHL's shipping logistics system ("Ship" function in the Post & DHL Business Customer Portal). You can also use the service if you program your own systems in-house.

Send your parcels with "Immediate return" if they contain time-critical and sensitive goods.
It reduces the risk of spoilage, damage, or loss of value of your goods.

  • time-critical goods and products with a short shelf life

  • sensitive or quality-sensitive products
  • foodstuffs, laboratory samples, or other perishable goods
  • high-quality goods where prolonged storage is to be avoided
  • shippers who need to quickly decide on the further disposition of their goods following a failed delivery attempt

The "Immediate return" service is generally free of charge. If the service is successfully executed and the package is returned, the Return fee will be charged (EUR 4.50 per DHL Paket, plus VAT).

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