21世纪经济报道·2025-09-23 12:16Core Viewpoint - The recent price increase in the express delivery industry, driven by policy and cost pressures, is spreading from core e-commerce areas to broader regions, aiming to curb long-standing low-price competition and improve service quality to retain consumer satisfaction [1][4][10]. Group 1: Price Increase Trends - Major express companies, including Jitu, Zhongtong, and Yuantong, have raised prices in Shanghai by 0.2 to 0.4 yuan per order, reflecting a broader trend initiated in regions like Zhejiang and Guangdong [1]. - The price adjustments primarily target low-priced e-commerce orders below cost, while personal parcel rates remain unaffected [1][4]. - The price increase is expected to enhance station profitability and courier income, with estimates suggesting a potential monthly revenue increase of approximately 1.5 million yuan for some stations [4]. Group 2: Industry Performance Metrics - In the first eight months of the year, the express delivery industry achieved a record volume of 1,282 billion packages, a year-on-year increase of 17.8%, while total revenue reached 958.37 billion yuan, reflecting a decline of 9.2% [2]. - The average price per delivery has decreased significantly, with major companies like Yunda and Yuantong reporting declines in per-package revenue due to intense competition [5]. Group 3: Cost Pressures and Market Dynamics - The express delivery sector faces rising costs, including increased wages for couriers and higher transportation and packaging expenses, leading to financial strain on many franchise operators [5][6]. - The shift from a volume-driven strategy to a quality-focused approach is evident, as companies like Zhongtong adjust their growth forecasts downward to prioritize service quality and profitability [6]. Group 4: Regional Price Variation and Market Response - Price adjustments have been uneven across regions, with core areas like Guangdong and Zhejiang implementing changes while non-core regions maintain existing pricing strategies [9]. - The autonomy of franchise operators in setting prices can lead to variations that undermine the intended effects of price increases, highlighting the need for a balance between headquarters policies and franchisee interests [9]. Group 5: Implications of Price Increases - The rise in delivery fees has led to the cancellation of shipping insurance by some merchants, particularly in high-return sectors like apparel, which may impact sales conversion rates [10]. - The potential reduction in reverse logistics volume due to the cancellation of shipping insurance could affect overall revenue for express stations, as reverse shipments are a significant source of additional income [10].