Delivery Workers in Christmas Stress: "One is completely exhausted" - Couriers Face Holiday Burnout as Gratitude Fades and Workloads Surge

The holiday rush is proving tough for couriers like Kerstin Klein and Steve Josch. Rising package volumes and fading customer gratitude have taken their toll. Klein, a DHL worker, has even swapped her Santa hat for a Grinch-themed one this year.

During the festive season, DHL courier Steve Josch delivers over 200 parcels a day—up from around 150 at other times. The job keeps him active but leaves him drained by evening. Some packages weigh more than 30 kilograms, adding to the physical strain. He's even had to deliver bulky items like refrigerators to doorsteps.

Multi-story buildings without lifts pose extra challenges. Josch often hauls heavy parcels up multiple flights of stairs, which wears him down over time.

Kerstin Klein has noticed a shift in customer behaviour over the years. Many now grab their packages without a word of thanks. The lack of appreciation, combined with the increased workload, has dimmed her holiday cheer.

Not all interactions are negative, though. Retiree Bernd Wendland helps by accepting deliveries for neighbours and offering tips to couriers. His small gestures make a difference. Yet, younger customers tend to show less gratitude than older ones, adding to the stress.

Many couriers wish for simple acknowledgements—a 'thank you', a small tip, or even a friendly smile. These gestures, they say, would go a long way in making their demanding jobs a little easier.

The holiday season brings extra pressure for couriers, with heavier loads and longer hours. While some customers still show kindness, the overall decline in appreciation has left many feeling undervalued. For now, the job remains physically and emotionally taxing, with little sign of relief.