Postfiliale

Postfiliale is a term used in German-speaking postal networks to denote a local branch of the national postal operator where the public can access postal services. A Postfiliale serves as the customer-facing point for mail and parcel handling and is distinct from internal mail processing facilities. It may be a stand-alone post office building or a counter within a shop or municipal building, staffed by employees of the postal operator.

Typical services include the sale of postage stamps and packaging materials, handling and acceptance of letters and parcels, processing of inbound mail, registration and insured mail, parcel tracking and delivery notices, redirection and address changes, and the handling of return shipments. Some locations also offer value-added services such as P.O. Box rental, money orders, or bill payments, depending on national arrangements.

Opening hours and the scope of services vary by location and country, with more extensive service offered in larger towns. In some countries, the term Postfiliale differentiates from smaller Poststellen or partner counters that operate within third-party premises; in others it is used interchangeably with a regular post office.

With the rise of digital services and parcel lockers (self-service stations), the role of traditional Postfilialen has evolved, combining staffed counters with self-service options and parcel pickup points. The term remains common in Germany, Austria, and parts of Central Europe to denote a conventional postal service counter.