hermes

standard shipping

Standard delivery is the most frequently used delivery option and is characterized by its cost efficiency. The focus is on reliable delivery within a normal time frame, which can vary depending on the provider and shipping destination. This delivery method is particularly suitable for shipments where the delivery time is not critical, such as orders that are not immediately urgent. The advantages of standard shipping often include additional services such as shipment tracking or the ability to redirect parcels to parcel shops or pick-up points.

express delivery

Express delivery is the ideal choice for urgent shipments that need to be delivered as quickly as possible. Customers benefit from shorter delivery times, which in many cases include delivery the next working day or at a fixed time. This service is particularly popular with business customers who need to send important documents or goods in a time-critical manner. Express delivery is also frequently used for gifts or emergencies. Although this delivery method has higher costs, it is justified by its speed and priority in processing.

National shipping

National shipping includes the delivery of parcels and goods within a country. This delivery method is efficient, fast and usually comes with low shipping costs. It is used by private customers as well as by companies that deliver products to their customers in Germany. Thanks to a dense network of logistics centers and delivery partners, nationwide and punctual delivery can be guaranteed. Many providers offer additional services such as flexible delivery times, diversions or drop off at a desired location to increase convenience for recipients.

International shipping

International shipping allows parcels and goods to be transported across national borders. It is essential for global trade and cross-border e-commerce. This shipping method includes transport by road, air or sea as well as the processing of customs formalities that are required for many countries. Customers can choose between various speed options, from standard to express delivery, to tailor delivery to their needs. The challenges of international shipping include different customs and import regulations and potential delays. However, modern logistics solutions offer transparent tracking and reliable processing to ensure a smooth shipping process.

PACKAGING GUIDELINES

Hermes has clear packaging guidelines that are intended to ensure that shipments reach recipients undamaged and on time. Careful packaging is crucial to ensure the safety of the goods during transport. These guidelines concern the choice of packaging material, the correct sealing of the shipment and the identification of sensitive contents.

- choice of packaging material

Hermes recommends choosing robust and sturdy outer packaging for every shipment. The packaging should be neither too big nor too small and sturdy enough to withstand loads during transport. For heavy or sensitive goods, it is recommended to use double-walled cardboard, which provides additional protection. Packaging that has already been used and shows signs of wear such as cracks or dents should be avoided as it is less stable and increases the risk of transport damage.

- Padding and protecting the content

The contents of the shipment should be protected from shocks using suitable cushioning materials — such as bubble wrap, foam or wrapping paper. Hermes recommends upholstery sensitive goods so that they have no room for movement within the package. There should be a gap of at least five centimeters between the contents and the packaging wall to provide protection against shocks and pressure.

- Seal the package correctly
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Securely closing the package is another important point. It is advisable to secure the package connections with strong adhesive tape, especially at the edges and openings of the box. For heavy packages, wide, reinforced adhesive tape is recommended, which provides additional stability and prevents the shipment from being opened unintentionally. An “H” closure, which covers both the edges and the central surfaces, ensures optimum safety.

- Correct labeling
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If the shipment contains sensitive or fragile content, this should be clearly visible on the outside with an appropriate sticker (“Be careful with glass” or “fragile”). Hermes points out that although such information encourages careful handling, it does not guarantee particularly gentle transport. Good padding is therefore still essential. Unwieldy packages or packages that are not rectangular (e.g. rolls or very large objects) are treated as bulky goods at Hermes and cost extra. Such packages should be securely packaged and marked so that they can be handled correctly in the depot.

- packaging for special requirements
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Hermes also offers special packaging solutions for special requirements, for example for shipping electronics, liquids or other sensitive goods. Customers can also purchase mailing bags, shipping boxes and boxes directly from Hermes that comply with the guidelines and are optimally designed for transport.

- Place the address label clearly
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Place the address label in a prominent place and make sure that it is completely legible and not damaged. Remove old mailing labels or other labels to avoid confusion.


Customs & import regulations

Customs and import regulations play a decisive role when shipping internationally via Hermes, as they significantly influence the shipping process. Each destination country has specific rules that must be observed to ensure smooth processing. Hermes provides its customers with comprehensive support by making the shipping process transparent and actively helping with customs clearance. The services include the preparation of the necessary customs documents, such as the commercial invoice and the customs content declaration (CN22 or CN23), which are required for export to countries outside the European Union. These documents contain important information such as the value of the goods, origin and description of the content, which makes it easier for customs authorities to verify. Import regulations may vary depending on the destination country and often include duties, taxes or special requirements, for example for food, medicines or electronic devices. Hermes notifies its customers in advance of such restrictions and ensures that all requirements are met to avoid delays or returns. International shipments may also incur additional costs such as import duties or sales taxes, which are usually borne by the recipient. However, Hermes ensures maximum transparency and, in some cases, also offers the option for the sender to pay these fees to simplify the process for the recipient.
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Insurance and liability
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When shipping with Hermes, insurance and liability play an important role in protecting both the sender and recipient from potential risks. Hermes offers basic insurance as standard for all national and international parcel shipments. This covers the value of the shipment up to an amount of 500 euros. Should the package be lost or damaged during transport, Hermes will ensure that the claim is easily settled under this liability. For customers whose value of goods exceeds the basic insurance amount, it is possible to take out additional transport insurance. With this extended insurance, shipments can be individually covered to ensure more comprehensive protection. This option is particularly interesting for valuable or sensitive goods. In order to claim liability, it is important that the damage is reported immediately. Hermes supports its customers in handling claims and ensures that the necessary steps for clarification are carried out quickly and transparently. It is also important that the shipment is properly packaged, as damage caused by improper packaging is not covered by insurance.
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shipment tracking

Hermes' shipment tracking offers customers a transparent and convenient way to keep an eye on their parcels at any time. With practical online tracking, both senders and recipients can track the status of their shipment in real time — from the delivery to the ParcelShop or collection to successful delivery. Each package receives a unique shipment number, which serves as a tracking key. Customers can enter this number into the tracking tool on the Hermes website or in the Hermes app to get detailed information about the current location of their shipment. In addition to the exact position, the system also shows the planned delivery so that recipients can plan better. The tracking system not only offers transparency, but also security. In the event of delays or problems, customers receive timely information and can contact customer service if necessary. For additional flexibility, it is possible to change the delivery location or time during the shipping process.

delivery options

Hermes offers a variety of delivery options to make the shipping process flexible and convenient. As standard, the package is delivered to the recipient's front door; alternatively, the package can be redirected to a Hermes ParcelShop, where it can be picked up for up to 10 days. For more flexibility, custom delivery is available, which allows the recipient to adjust the delivery day or time or forward the delivery to an alternative address. A storage permit is also possible so that the package is stored in a safe location. For particularly urgent shipments, Hermes offers express delivery within 24 hours or even on the same day. Large or bulky goods are delivered directly to the apartment by the 2-man service, including assembly or installation on request. These options guarantee individual and convenient delivery for every need.

Return and return option

Hermes offers various return and return options that make returning goods easy and convenient. Especially for online retail, this service is a practical solution to process returns quickly and easily.
One of the most common return options is to return it to a Hermes ParcelShop. With over 16,000 locations across Germany, customers can conveniently drop off their returns at a shop near them. Alternatively, Hermes also offers the option of organising returns to be picked up directly at the front door. This option is particularly practical for customers who do not have time to bring the package to a ParcelShop themselves. For online retailers, Hermes offers a returns management solution that enables customers to process returns quickly and transparently. Customers often receive a return slip with the order, which they can use to return the goods. This simplifies and speeds up the entire return process.
In addition, Hermes ensures that returns are processed promptly and the refund is processed quickly, which guarantees a high level of satisfaction for both senders and recipients. With these flexible return options, Hermes ensures a smooth processing of returns and a pleasant return experience for everyone involved.