How to Send a Letter in Germany

How to Send a Letter in Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide for Newcomers

Sending a letter in Germany might seem simple, but for newcomers, understanding how the postal system works can be confusing. Whether you are mailing a letter within Germany or sending one internationally, following the correct steps—from addressing the envelope to choosing the right postage—is essential.

This guide explains everything you need to know about sending mail in Germany efficiently.

Understanding the German Postal System: Deutsche Post and DHL

Germany has a highly efficient postal system, primarily operated by Deutsche Post for regular mail and DHL for express deliveries and packages.

• Deutsche Post handles most letter mail, offering a vast network of post offices and postboxes across Germany. It is the standard choice for sending letters within Germany and abroad.
• DHL, a subsidiary of Deutsche Post, specializes in international shipping, express deliveries, and logistics services. While it mainly deals with packages, it also offers expedited letter services.

For regular letters, Deutsche Post is the best choice. If you need faster delivery or tracking, DHL’s express services may be a better option.

How to Address an Envelope in Germany

Incorrectly formatted addresses can delay or even prevent delivery. In Germany, the sender’s address and recipient’s address must follow specific formatting rules.

Writing the Sender’s Address (Absenderadresse)

The sender’s address should be placed in the top left-hand corner of the envelope. The correct format is:

1. Full name (e.g., John Doe)
2. Street name and house number (e.g., Hauptstraße 12)
3. Postal code and city (e.g., 10115 Berlin)
4. Country name (only for international mail, e.g., Germany)

Writing the Recipient’s Address (Empfängeradresse)

The recipient’s address should be written in the lower right-hand corner of the envelope. The correct format is:

1. Full name (e.g., Anna Müller)
2. Street name and house number (e.g., Alexanderplatz 1)
3. Postal code and city (e.g., 10178 Berlin)
4. Country name (for international mail, e.g., France)

To ensure clarity, print the address or write in capital letters.

Choosing the Right Envelope in Germany

Germany offers various envelope types based on the size and contents of your letter.

• Standard Envelope (DIN C6, DL) – Ideal for regular letters, bills, or postcards.
• Larger Envelope (C4, C5) – Suitable for documents that should not be folded, such as contracts or certificates.
• Bubble Envelope (Luftpolsterumschlag) – Used for small items or documents that require extra protection.

Choosing the right envelope helps protect your letter from damage during transit.

How to Buy a Postage Stamp in Germany

Postage costs in Germany depend on the size, weight, and destination of the letter.

Postage Costs for Sending a Letter in Germany

• Standard letter within Germany (up to 20g): €0.85
• Standard letter to other European countries: €1.10
• Standard letter outside Europe: €1.70

It is always best to check the latest postage prices on the Deutsche Post website or ask at a post office.

Where to Buy Stamps in Germany

There are several ways to purchase postage stamps:

• Post offices – Visit any Deutsche Post branch.
• Stamp vending machines – Located near post offices, supermarkets, and train stations.
• Online via Deutsche Post – Purchase and print stamps at home.

For convenience, buying online stamps allows you to skip a trip to the post office.

Where to Drop Off Your Letter in Germany

Once your letter is addressed and stamped, it needs to be sent via a postbox or post office.

Finding a Postbox in Germany

German postboxes are bright yellow and are available in most cities, towns, and villages.

• Many postboxes have two slots:
  • One for local and national mail
  • One for international mail
• Collection times are displayed on each postbox. Posting before the last collection time ensures faster delivery.

Dropping Off a Letter at a Post Office

Alternatively, letters can be dropped off at a Deutsche Post branch. This is recommended for registered mail or if you are unsure about the postage.

How to Send a Letter Internationally from Germany

Sending an international letter from Germany requires extra steps:

1. Use the correct international postage rate
2. Clearly write the destination country (in English) under the city name
3. Use the correct postbox slot (international mail) or hand it to a post office employee

Delivery Times for International Mail from Germany

• Letters within Europe: 3–5 business days
• Letters outside Europe: 7–14 business days, depending on the destination

Tracking a Letter in Germany: Einschreiben (Registered Mail)

If you are sending important documents, using a registered mail service is recommended.

Types of Registered Mail (Einschreiben) in Germany

• Einschreiben Standard – Includes tracking but no signature.
• Einschreiben Einwurf – Delivered directly to the recipient’s mailbox.
• Einschreiben Rückschein – Requires the recipient’s signature and provides a return receipt.

These options add security and proof of delivery but come with additional costs.

Practical Tips for Sending Letters in Germany

• Check postbox collection times – Ensure your letter is dropped off before the last collection to avoid delays.
• Use clear handwriting or print the address – Prevents misdelivery.
• Keep a copy of important letters – Useful for official documents.
• Consider tracking services – Einschreiben provides extra security for valuable letters.
• Use sturdy envelopes for sensitive documents – Helps prevent damage.

Final Thoughts: Sending Mail in Germany Made Easy

Understanding how to send a letter in Germany is easy once you know the correct procedures. Whether mailing within Germany or internationally, following these steps ensures that your letter reaches its destination safely and on time. With a reliable postal service like Deutsche Post, sending letters from Germany is efficient and straightforward.

FAQ: Sending Letter in Germany