Zustellen

Zustellen is a German verb meaning to deliver or hand over something to someone. It is used in everyday logistics as well as in legal and administrative contexts. The action describes transferring possession of a thing to a recipient, typically to ensure the recipient becomes aware of it.

In logistics and postal service, zustellen refers to delivering goods, packages, or mail to the intended recipient. Common phrases include eine Sendung zustellen or eine Lieferung zustellen. The recipient is often expressed in the dative, for example dem Kunden, and the delivery is completed when the item reaches the recipient or a designated place for handover. The past participle is zugestellt, as in Die Sendung ist zugestellt worden.

In legal and administrative contexts, Zustellung denotes the service or notification of legal acts, court documents, or official notices. This form of Zustellung is legally significant because it establishes knowledge of the document by the recipient. Different methods may be prescribed, and a proof of delivery or Zustellnachweis can be required to verify that the recipient received the notice.

Grammar and usage notes: zustellen is a verb with a separable prefix in many tenses, so the prefix often detaches in main clauses (e.g., er stellt das Paket zu). The form zugestellt is used in perfect tenses. Related terms include Zusteller (the person who delivers) and Zustellung (the act of delivery or service).

Overall, zustellen covers both commercial delivery and the formal notification of papers, with nuances depending on the context.