BERLIN (dpa-AFX) – The already high workload for package couriers in Germany has increased even further, according to a recent survey. As revealed in a poll conducted by Input Consulting on behalf of the Verdi trade union, 89 percent of approximately 1,900 delivery workers surveyed felt that, over the past twelve months, they had to accomplish more work within the same amount of time--either "to a very high degree" or "to a high degree." A similar number reported feeling rushed and said they were pushed to the limits of their capacity. Seventy-nine percent stated they had to compromise on quality in order to keep up with their workload.
Based on the responses, experts calculated an index indicating that working conditions in the parcel delivery sector are significantly worse than in other industries. An index value of 40, on a scale from zero to one hundred, is considered negative, or "bad work." Employees in the parcel delivery sector rated their income as particularly poor. The survey also found that many couriers work longer hours than legally permitted and have too few opportunities for breaks.
Calls for New Regulations
Verdi Deputy Chair Andrea Kocsis interpreted the survey as evidence that something is fundamentally wrong in the industry. She called for improved working conditions. "There is an urgent need for action in the sector," she said. For example, she argued that a 20-kilogram weight limit is long overdue, above which packages should not be delivered by a single person. Such a legal requirement does not currently exist.
The parcel industry is experiencing strong growth: As people increasingly shop online, package volumes have risen sharply in recent years. The pre-Christmas period, with discount events such as Black Friday, is considered especially labor-intensive.
The industry is desperately seeking workers to cope with the flood of orders. Most parcel companies rely on subcontractors for deliveries, a practice sharply criticized by Verdi--the union is calling for a ban on subcontracting in the parcel sector. DHL, the market leader, takes a different approach from its competitors: the company sends out almost exclusively its own employees to deliver packages.
