What is MyParcel?

MyParcel is a modern shipping platform designed specifically for online businesses. It acts as a central hub that connects your eCommerce store with multiple carriers including PostNL, DHL, and DPD. Rather than managing relationships with multiple shipping companies, MyParcel provides a single, streamlined interface for all your shipping needs.

The platform offers automated label generation, real-time tracking, and integrated returns management—all through one easy-to-use dashboard.

What is Traditional Shipping?

Traditional shipping refers to working directly with individual carriers like PostNL, DHL, UPS, or FedEx. This typically involves:

• Creating separate accounts with each carrier
• Using different platforms or software for each provider
• Manually managing shipping labels and documentation
• Negotiating rates individually with each carrier
• Handling customer service through multiple channels

Head-to-Head Comparison

1. Cost Effectiveness

MyParcel:

• No setup fees: Get started without any upfront investment
• Volume discounts: Automatically access better rates as you ship more
• Transparent pricing: Clear cost breakdown with no hidden fees
• Pay-as-you-go: Only pay for what you use, no monthly commitments
• Bulk shipping rates: Benefit from MyParcel’s negotiated carrier rates

Traditional Shipping:

• Account fees: Many carriers charge monthly or annual fees
• Minimum volumes: Often require minimum shipping volumes for good rates
• Variable pricing: Rates can change without notice
• Negotiation required: You need leverage to get competitive rates
• Hidden costs: Fuel surcharges, residential delivery fees, and more

Winner: MyParcel – Small businesses benefit from collective bargaining power and transparent pricing without minimum volume requirements.

2. Time Investment

MyParcel:

• Single integration: Connect once to access multiple carriers
• Automated workflows: Orders automatically sync from your store
• Bulk processing: Generate hundreds of labels in minutes
• One dashboard: Manage all shipments in one place
• Quick setup: Get started in under 30 minutes

Traditional Shipping:

• Multiple integrations: Set up each carrier separately
• Manual processes: Often requires manual data entry
• Time-consuming: Switch between different platforms and systems
• Complex setup: Each carrier has different requirements
• Training needed: Staff must learn multiple systems

Winner: MyParcel – Automation and centralization save hours of administrative work every week.

3. Features and Functionality

MyParcel:

• ✅ Automated label generation
• ✅ Real-time tracking across all carriers
• ✅ Integrated returns portal
• ✅ Branded tracking pages
• ✅ Delivery time estimates
• ✅ Multiple shipping options (standard, express, evening delivery)
• ✅ International shipping support
• ✅ API access for custom integrations
• ✅ Mobile app for on-the-go management
• ✅ Analytics and reporting dashboard

Traditional Shipping:

• ✅ Direct carrier relationship
• ✅ Carrier-specific features
• ❌ No unified tracking system
• ❌ Limited automation options
• ❌ Separate returns processes for each carrier
• ❌ Inconsistent customer experience
• ⚠️ Advanced features often cost extra
• ⚠️ Limited reporting capabilities

Winner: MyParcel – Modern features designed specifically for eCommerce businesses.

4. Customer Experience

MyParcel:

• Consistent branding: Customize tracking pages with your logo and colors
• Proactive notifications: Automated SMS and email updates
• Easy returns: Customer-friendly return portal
• Delivery options: Let customers choose their preferred delivery time
• Real-time tracking: Live updates across all carriers

Traditional Shipping:

• Generic tracking: Customers redirected to carrier websites
• Manual notifications: You need to send updates yourself
• Complex returns: Different process for each carrier
• Limited options: Dependent on individual carrier offerings
• Inconsistent experience: Varies by carrier used

Winner: MyParcel – Creates a professional, branded experience that builds customer trust.

5. Scalability

MyParcel:

• Grows with your business automatically
• No need to renegotiate contracts as you scale
• Easy to add new carriers or shipping options
• Volume discounts kick in automatically
• Infrastructure handles high-volume periods (Black Friday, holidays)

Traditional Shipping:

• Must renegotiate rates as volumes change
• May need to switch carriers for better rates
• Scaling often requires new software or systems
• Growing pains during high-volume periods
• Additional staff needed to manage complexity

Winner: MyParcel – Seamlessly scales from 10 to 10,000 shipments per month.

Real-World Cost Comparison

Let’s look at a practical example for a small business shipping 200 packages per month within the Netherlands:

*Prices are estimates based on typical Dutch small business scenarios. Actual costs may vary.

When Traditional Shipping Might Make Sense

While MyParcel wins in most categories, traditional shipping might be better if:

• You ship very high volumes: If you’re shipping 10,000+ packages per month, you might negotiate better direct rates
• You use specialized services: Highly specialized shipping needs (hazardous materials, oversized freight) may require direct carrier relationships
• You have existing contracts: If you’re locked into favorable long-term carrier contracts
• You need specific carrier features: Some niche carrier services may not be available through MyParcel

Success Story: How a Dutch Online Store Saved 35% on Shipping

“Before MyParcel, we were spending 15 hours per week managing shipments across three different carriers. We were constantly switching between platforms, manually entering data, and fielding customer complaints about tracking. After switching to MyParcel, we cut our shipping costs by 35% and reduced our admin time to just 2 hours per week. The automated tracking notifications alone have reduced our customer service inquiries by 60%.”

Making the Switch: How to Transition from Traditional Shipping to MyParcel

Ready to make the move? Here’s how to transition smoothly:

Step 1: Sign Up (5 minutes)

• Create your MyParcel account at myparcel.nl
• No credit card required to get started
• Verify your business information

Step 2: Connect Your Store (15 minutes)

• Integrate MyParcel with your eCommerce platform (Shopify, WooCommerce, Store.icu, etc.)
• Configure your shipping rules and preferences
• Set up your branded tracking page

Step 3: Test Shipments (30 minutes)

• Create a few test orders
• Generate labels and verify tracking
• Test the customer experience

Step 4: Go Live (Immediate)

• Start using MyParcel for all new orders
• Phase out traditional shipping gradually
• Monitor performance and adjust as needed

Integration with Store.icu

If you’re using Store.icu to power your eCommerce business, integrating MyParcel is incredibly simple. Store.icu’s white-label platform includes native MyParcel integration, allowing you to:

• Automatically sync orders from your store to MyParcel
• Generate shipping labels directly from your Store.icu dashboard
• Provide customers with real-time tracking updates
• Manage returns seamlessly
• Access all MyParcel features without leaving your Store.icu admin panel

Learn More About Store.icu + MyParcel →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use MyParcel if I’m already working with carriers directly?

Yes! MyParcel can work alongside your existing carrier relationships. Many businesses use MyParcel for domestic shipments while maintaining direct relationships for international or specialized shipping.

What happens if MyParcel raises their prices?

MyParcel’s pricing is transparent and competitive. Unlike traditional carriers, you’re not locked into long-term contracts, so you can always evaluate your options. However, MyParcel’s collective bargaining power typically results in more stable pricing than individual carrier relationships.

Is MyParcel suitable for international shipping?

Absolutely! MyParcel supports international shipping to over 200 countries through partnerships with DHL, DPD, and other international carriers. You get the same easy interface for both domestic and international shipments.

How does MyParcel handle returns?

MyParcel includes a built-in returns portal where customers can initiate returns themselves. You can customize the return policy, generate return labels automatically, and track returned items—all from one dashboard.

Do I need technical knowledge to set up MyParcel?

Not at all! MyParcel is designed to be user-friendly. Most eCommerce platforms (including Store.icu) offer one-click integration. If you can manage your online store, you can set up MyParcel.

The Verdict: Which is Better for Small Businesses?

For the vast majority of small businesses, MyParcel is the clear winner. Here’s why:

Take Action: Start Saving on Shipping Today

The shipping landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. What worked for small businesses five years ago may be costing you time and money today. Modern platforms like MyParcel exist specifically to level the playing field, giving small businesses access to the same tools and rates that large enterprises enjoy.

The question isn’t whether you can afford to switch to MyParcel—it’s whether you can afford not to.

Looking for an all-in-one eCommerce solution? Store.icu offers white-label eCommerce site building with native MyParcel integration, making it easy to launch and scale your online store with professional shipping built right in.