DPD Germany ships over 350 million parcels every year. To make parcel shipping more sustainable, Germany’s second-largest shipping service provider is now partnering with hey circle. The reusable pioneer from Munich offers an eco-friendly and efficient alternative to single-use shipping packaging with its innovative solution.
The reusable shipping boxes from hey circle offer great benefits for both customers and the environment. Customers benefit from environmentally friendly, durable, and reusable packaging that provides better protection for shipments while significantly reducing waste due to its long lifespan. The reusable boxes and bags can be used for up to 50 cycles between companies and their customers and partners, as well as for internal shipping, a clear advantage over conventional single-use packaging.
Thanks to their long service life, cost savings are possible in many cases, as packaging does not always have to be purchased new. This applies, for example, to closed-loop systems and retailers with high return rates.
“Our partnership with hey circle is another important step towards more sustainable parcel shipping,” says Dr. Karsten Schwarz, Chief Executive Officer at DPD Germany. As part of the sales cooperation, DPD will act as an intermediary between hey circle and its business customers, enabling easy integration of the boxes and bags into existing logistics processes. “We see our role as offering customers innovative, environmentally friendly solutions that seamlessly integrate into their existing shipping processes. With hey circle’s reusable shipping bags, we are making a statement for more sustainable logistics.”
At hey circle, there is a firm belief that reusable shipping is the future of commerce. “DPD and hey circle share a common goal: to establish a widespread reusable concept for e-commerce. Through this partnership, shipping companies can see that they can rely on established logistics processes while using innovative packaging. We are excited to work together to attract flagship customers for waste-free shipping.”
DPD and hey circle have already tested how well the foldable, recyclable plastic packaging fits into logistics workflows. A trial run was conducted with clothing manufacturer Trigema, where 200 XL boxes were used between production facilities and stores to reduce waste and save costs.
How reusable shipping with hey circle works
Shipping with hey circle works similarly to using a cardboard box. Businesses can rent or purchase the bags and boxes. The goods are packed, a return label is included, and the packaging is sealed with a zipper and security seal. For shipments to private customers, hey circle offers a plugin that makes the reusable option visible at checkout. The box or bag is used without a deposit but must always be returned; otherwise, it will be invoiced. It can be returned to the retailer empty and folded or fully assembled, with or without goods. Returns can be handed directly to a DPD courier or dropped off at a collection point. Once back at the warehouse, the packaging is inspected and prepared for the next shipment. With shipping bags and boxes up to partial pallet size, all shipping scenarios are covered.