Taipei: Chunghwa Post announced on Monday that it will launch a new overseas package shipping service called International ePackets on April 1. International ePackets will replace registered small packets as the primary method for sending parcels weighing up to 2 kilograms overseas, offering customers a more affordable option without compensation for lost or damaged packages.

According to Focus Taiwan, the shift to International ePackets is in response to new Universal Postal Union (UPU) standards and the growing demand for cross-border e-commerce. From April 1, the service will expand from the current 24 countries and regions to any location where international airmail is available. Consequently, the service for international registered small packets will be discontinued.

Chunghwa Post highlighted that certain features of the international registered small packet service, such as requiring a signature upon delivery and allowing written inquiries on parcel status, contributed to inefficiencies and increased labor costs. In contrast, International ePackets will offer improved efficiency and lower pricing, as they do not require a recipient's signature, written inquiries, or compensation for lost or damaged packages.

For instance, sending a 300-gram parcel to Japan as an international registered small packet currently costs NT$173 (including a registered mail fee), whereas it will only cost NT$140 as an International ePacket, resulting in a NT$33 saving for customers.