Shipments

Today I want to talk a little bit about shipping.

With all the online purchases that are made every day, it is important to take a moment to consider the impact of this.

I am a small online book seller but every day I deliver between 8 and 20 books to the DPD pick-up point near me. This morning I saw the regular DPD driver and he was extremely busy. (as always by the way) So I asked him: "Mohammed, so busy man" He replied that he had to deliver 200 parcels to a good 150 addresses today. I couldn't believe my ears. I am aware that the courier services have to deal with quite a few addresses every day. But 150 addresses!!!

Online sales platforms such as Amazon, bol.com, etc. have indeed made it far too easy for us. We are so used to ordering and having it delivered to our homes that we do not consider the consequences. Why don't we pick up our packages at collection points such as petrol stations, supermarkets, newsagents, etc. instead of having it delivered to our homes? Not only do we reduce our ecological footprint and reduce the stress of the courier services, but we especially do not have to stay at home until the courier service comes by with our package. I often experience that I receive returns because the addressee was not at home when the courier service came by. I also do not like waiting a whole day for my package. So why not have it delivered to a pick-up point nearby?

Today I decided to change my shipping costs. Do you want your package to be delivered to your home? Well then you will pay the full amount. However, if you agree to have it delivered to a pick-up point of your choice, I will pay up to 50% (Belgium) and up to 20% (Netherlands) of the shipping costs if you have your purchase delivered to a pick-up point near you.

It would be nice if you let me know what you prefer:

• at home
• pick-up point