South Africa’s courier industry just got greener. XPress, a new courier service powered entirely by electric vehicles (EVs), has launched in Gauteng and surrounding areas, offering next-day delivery at a flat rate of R99.
The company was founded by Alex Staniland and is backed by the seasoned freight logistics firm Special Envoy.
XPress aims to shake up the delivery game with fast service, green tech, and modern convenience—delivering a package with zero emissions and a high-tech edge.
XPress courier service uses EV fleet for eco-friendly deliveries
What sets XPress courier service apart is its 100 percent electric fleet. The company launched operations with three BYD Dolphin EVs, each modified to maximise cargo space by removing the passenger and rear seats. With a range of over 400km per charge, these cars are ideally suited for overnight trips across Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo.
Staniland, who also runs the smart home e-commerce platform mUther, said the idea was born out of frustration with unreliable third-party courier services.
“I wanted a delivery partner that matched my brand image. When I couldn’t find one, I created one,” he explained.
More than just a green choice, the EVs help the company operate more efficiently. With no fuel costs and lower maintenance, XPress has managed to keep the delivery cost at R99, while offering next-day service on bookings made before 10 am. Customers can also track parcels in real-time through the company’s website.
Special envoy brings decades of logistics expertise to XPress courier
Although XPress is a new player, it stands on the solid foundation of Special Envoy, a logistics firm with over 40 years of experience in delivering freight, particularly to the mining sector in Gauteng and Mpumalanga.
Staniland believes that launching a courier arm was a natural progression, especially given South Africa’s growing demand for sustainable and reliable logistics.
XPress also brings a bit of tech flair. The company’s “Bring It” service lets customers send packages by simply scanning a QR code with their phone—no paperwork, no printing, just a few taps.
XPress electric courier plans expansion beyond Gauteng
Early feedback for the XPress electric courier service has been positive, and plans are already in motion to expand into Durban, Cape Town, and Nelspruit. The team is also eyeing the BYD Seagull for shorter, intra-city routes.
While South Africa is still catching up on EV adoption, XPress is betting that environmentally conscious delivery is the way forward. With reliable next-day service, smart tech, and a sleek fleet of EVs, XPress is charging ahead—quietly, cleanly, and efficiently.