DHL Express to hike rates in 2017

The parcel carrier’s expedited shipping segment will raise prices by an average of 3.9 percent in Germany, effective Jan. 1, 2017, with prices in other countries varying based on local conditions, the company said in a statement.    DHL Express will hike rates again in 2017, according to a statement from the company.
   The Bonn, Germany-based parcel carrier’s expedited shipping segment will raise prices by an average of 3.9 percent in Germany, effective Jan. 1, 2017. Prices in other countries will vary based on local conditions, the company said.
   DHL Express noted it adjusts prices annually, taking into account inflation, currency dynamics and other rising costs, such as expenses related to compliance with enhanced security regulations, in each of the more than 220 countries and territories that it serves.
   FedEx Corp. last week announced a similar 3.9 percent increase in 2017 shipping rates for U.S. export and import services offered by its FedEx Express unit.
   “DHL Express is focused on being the quality leader in the international time definite delivery business,” said Wolfgang P. Albeck, country manager, DHL Express Germany. “Our annual price increase supports this aspiration by allowing us to invest in a truly world-class network that generates significant value for our customers. Our prices reflect both the value embedded in our service and our uncompromising long-term commitment to service quality.
   “In 2016, we announced a broad array of investments in our network, systems and people, committing more than EUR 800 million in capital expenditure during the year,” he added. “Landmark investments include a EUR 66 million gateway in Tokyo, Japan, the launch of new automated sorts at our hubs in Cincinnati, U.S., Singapore and Leipzig, Germany, and the pioneering introduction of more efficient A330-300 cargo aircraft in our European air fleet.
   “In 2017, we will maintain this rate of investment and continue to leverage our network to make our customers successful in their international trade activities.”