Deutsche Post letter service restructuring

Deutsche Post has announced a restructuring of its letter services scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. The initiative aims to simplify the shipping process, increase automation, and create a clearer distinction between document and goods shipping to allow sorting machines to process items more reliably.

For domestic shipping in Germany, the 'Großbrief' format will see increased height and weight limits, while the 'Maxibrief' format will also expand its dimensions and weight capacity. Specifically, the 'Großbrief National' weight capacity will increase to 1,000 grams with a 3 cm height limit, and the 'Maxibrief National' weight limit will double to 2,000 grams with a 3 cm height cap. The existing additional fee option for oversized Maxibriefs is expected to be discontinued.

International shipping will undergo significant adjustments. The 'Maxibrief international' format will be abolished and replaced by a new 'MidiBrief' format, which allows for a weight of up to 500 grams and a height of 2 cm. Additionally, the 'Großbrief international' will feature dimensions similar to the domestic Maxibrief but with a weight limit of 1,000 grams. Standard letters and postcards will remain unaffected.