Parcel shipping: DHL augments partnership with Retail Shipping Associates for global shipping services
Jeff Berman, Group News Editor -- Logistics Management, 11/13/2009
Global express and logistics service provider DHL Express said this week it has expanded an existing agreement with Retail Shipping Associates (RSA), a trade association representing retail shipping stores, in which RSA will act as a preferred partner for the DHL Authorized Shipping Center Network.
Under this agreement RSA will support DHL international express services at thousands of U.S.-based independently owned or franchised retail shipping center outlets. DHL officials said their company will consolidate support in the U.S. for retail access to international services with RSA, making it more convenient for small- and medium-sized businesses to access DHL's global express delivery network. They added that RSA will reciprocate by providing DHL Express with management, customer service, technology, sales support and promotional services for its expanding retail shipping network.
Robert Mintz, DHL Express spokesman, told LM there were several factors behind this agreement.
"DHL was looking to partner with an organization to help grow its share of the small to mid-sized business market," he said. "RSA is the perfect partner as they are the largest and fastest growing retail shipping trade association in the U.S. Additionally, RSA has over 3,000 active members, most of who are seasoned professionals in the retail industry and are effectively managing their shipping stores."
And he added that the expansion of DHL's partnership with RSA will help DHL better serve the needs of small to mid-size business customers though professionally staffed stores that offer personalized service. With RSA's knowledge, tools, international training services and investments, the DHL authorized Shipping Center network (DASC) will be even better supported.
"Our partnership with RSA also represents the most innovative and effective approach in implementing DHL's retail strategy [and is] much more cost-effective than brick and mortar free-standing outlets," noted Mintz.
When asked what some of the biggest benefits of this news are for RSA members and subsequently shippers, Mintz cited:
- access to DHL Express international services that can be offered by RSA-member stores to customers at a very competitive price.
- RSA-member stores will be listed on the DHL website as a DHL Authorized Service Center (DASC) location, providing a convenient option for customers that operate globally and rely on fast, reliable international shipping
- RSA-member stores may also benefit from increased visibility of additional services they offer, including mailbox rentals, notary and copying services, key-making, etc, however the primary business for these members is fulfilling shipping/transportation needs.
Mintz also said that DHL is extending its DHL's Certified International Specialist (CIS) training program to RSA store owners. The CIS training program, he explained, is the centerpiece of an employee's training and education, and DHL is the only company that provides such an in-depth training program on international shipping to all of its employees-from couriers to executive management.
Among the services DHL will be providing RSA member stores include: DHL Express Worldwide, DHL Express Envelope, and DHL Import Express Worldwide.
DHL and RSA initially began collaborating in 2007, and now there are 1,800 RSA member stores that are part of the DHL Authorized Shipping Center Network.
"As the recognized leader for international express shipping, DHL represents an important piece of the offering for retail shipping centers throughout the U.S.," said Brandon Gale, RSA president, in a statement. "Small and mid-sized shippers need convenient access to DHL services, and that is exactly what the DHL Authorized Shipping Center network provides. RSA is excited to partner with DHL on behalf of both our members and the industry. Our team of dedicated experts looks forward to enhancing value, efficiency, and productivity for both DHL and program participants."
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question...i recieved a letter for a shipment notice for a package...now this mail is long over due some how it got over looked in the post office....now i need to know if your company is the one that send me this mail and if ican send it or can i still send it
Christine Major - 2010-22-1 10:11:43 EST
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