快递业：从“价格战”到“服务战”

Core Viewpoint - The recent price increase in the express delivery industry is seen as a crucial attempt to break the "low-price dependency" and reconstruct the value logic of the industry, with 22 provinces already raising delivery prices [1][3][4]. Price Increase Background - The price increase began in Yiwu, Zhejiang, with a new minimum price of 1.2 yuan per ticket, followed by Guangdong raising the average price to over 1.4 yuan [1][2]. - Major express companies have raised prices for e-commerce clients by 0.3 to 0.5 yuan for packages under 1 kilogram [2]. Industry Challenges - The express delivery industry has faced a long-standing dilemma of "price for volume," leading to unsustainable profit margins, with the average price per ticket dropping to 7.52 yuan, a 7.7% year-on-year decrease [2][3]. - Complaints about service quality have surged, with issues like violent sorting and delivery delays becoming common [3]. Regulatory Environment - The price adjustments are largely driven by policy guidance aimed at correcting irrational competition and promoting rational market behavior [2][3]. - The National Postal Administration has emphasized the need for improved industry regulations and quality standards [3]. Industry Dynamics - The price increase has led to a restructuring of interests within the supply chain, with e-commerce platforms, merchants, and consumers needing to find a balance in cost-sharing [4][5]. - Small online shops that rely on low shipping costs face significant pressure, often needing to adjust their pricing strategies to maintain profitability [5]. Sustainable Profit Models - The express delivery industry is transitioning from chaotic competition to rational pricing, with a focus on technological innovation and infrastructure investment [6][7]. - Leading companies like JD Logistics are investing heavily in automation and technology to enhance efficiency and reduce costs [6]. Future Outlook - The industry is expected to deepen its focus on value rather than just price increases, aiming to create a sustainable ecosystem where merchant costs are manageable, consumer experiences are improved, and company profits are stable [8].