DHL Express, the world's leading international express services provider, announced on Feb 14, the launch of On Demand Delivery, a new service that allows shippers and receivers globally to select from a range of standardized delivery options.
With On Demand Delivery, shippers can choose to activate specific delivery options and have DHL Express proactively notify their customers via email or SMS about a shipment's progress. Receivers can then select the delivery option that best suits their requirements via the On Demand Delivery mobile-optimized website. The service offers flexibility and convenience and caters to the demands of international online shoppers who do not want to miss a delivery when away from home.
"The value of cross-border e-commerce transactions is set to grow at an average of about 30% per year[1], meaning retailers will sell at higher rates into more countries than ever before -- including those where they have little to no on-the-ground presence," said Ken Lee, CEO, DHL Express Asia Pacific. "Asia Pacific markets like Singapore, Australia, and Hong Kong have some of the highest numbers of cross-border online shoppers in the world, and retailers require flexible, reliable cross-border shipping options to grow their margins and market share.
"On Demand Delivery helps retailers the world over offer Asian consumers that flexibility and reliability, through digital channels they're most accustomed to using."
Consumers access On Demand Delivery via any desktop or mobile device, and can choose from six different options, including: redirecting to alternate addresses or DHL service points (like retail outlets and newsagents); waiving the need for a signature; and even putting shipments on hold during vacation. Delivery instructions make their way in real-time to DHL Express couriers, ensuring shipments are received at the right time and at the convenience of the receiver.
"Asian consumers shop online because they desire convenience -- both in how they communicate their preferences and receive their purchases," said Yasmin Khan, Executive Vice President, Commercial and Managing Director, Emerging Markets, DHL Express Asia Pacific. "With Asia Pacific countries leading the way in mobile adoption, any platform for managing deliveries has to be mobile-friendly in order to gain traction, while also immediately conveying customers' instructions to couriers so that first-time deliveries hit the mark much more often.