Mail Delivery in Germany: Deutsche Post, DHL Packstation & Registered Mail (Einschreiben)

In Germany, physical mail delivery remains central to government communication, banking, insurance contracts, and tax notices. Missing an official letter can result in missed administrative deadlines or legal penalties.

Understanding how Deutsche Post, DHL Packstations, and registered mail (Einschreiben) work is essential for every expat.

Here is a guide to receiving, redirecting, and sending mail in Germany.

Mailbox Rules: Name Tag Requirement

In Germany, mail carriers do NOT deliver mail by apartment number. They deliver strictly by Last Name on the mailbox (Briefkasten)!

  • Critical Rule: As soon as you complete your Anmeldung (address registration), make sure your last name is clearly printed on your building’s street doorbell (Klingel) and your individual apartment mailbox (Briefkasten).
  • Sub-Letting / c/o Address: If you are staying temporarily with someone else, instruct senders to include c/o [Name of Primary Tenant] on your letter, otherwise Deutsche Post will return your letter to sender as undeliverable (Empfänger nicht ermittelbar)!

Using DHL Packstation (Automated 24/7 Parcel Lockers)

To avoid missing package deliveries when you are at work, DHL operates over 13,000 automated yellow parcel lockers (Packstation) located across Germany outside supermarkets, train stations, and gas stations.

How to Use a DHL Packstation:

  1. Register for Post & DHL Account: Create a free account on dhl.de or via the Post & DHL App. Verify your identity and address.
  2. Receive Your Post-Number: You will be assigned a unique 6 to 10 digit Postnummer.
  3. Format Shipping Address When Shopping Online:
    • Name: Your Full Name
    • Street Address: Packstation [3-digit Locker Number]
    • Address Line 2 / Details: Your Postnummer
    • Postal Code & City: City/Zip of the Packstation location.
  4. Collection: When your package arrives, you receive a notification in the DHL App. Walk up to the locker, scan your app QR code, and your locker door pops open automatically!

Registered Mail (Einschreiben) for Official Cancellation Letters

When terminating contracts in Germany (such as an apartment rental contract, gym membership, internet contract, or job resignation), email is often legally insufficient unless specified. Sending a formal written cancellation letter via Einschreiben provides legal proof of delivery.

Types of Einschreiben:

  • Einschreiben Einwurf (Standard Registered Drop-In): The mail carrier signs an official log confirming they dropped the letter into the recipient’s mailbox. Recommended for contract cancellations!
  • Einschreiben Eigenhändig (Personal Delivery): Delivered only upon personal signature and ID check of the named recipient.
  • Einschreiben mit Rückschein (Return Receipt): You receive a physical signed postcard back in your mailbox proving receipt date.

Mail Forwarding (Nachsendeservice)

When moving to a new apartment anywhere in Germany:

  • Order a Nachsendeservice from Deutsche Post at least 2 weeks before your move date.
  • Deutsche Post will automatically forward all letters addressed to your old address directly to your new home address for 6 or 12 months (costing approx. €30 to €45).

Managing official paperwork for your visa or town hall? Read our guide on Ausländerbehörde Termin Appointments!