DHL tracking

What is DHL Express?

DHL Express is one of the world's leading international express shipping operators, specializing in rapid delivery of documents and parcels across the globe. A subsidiary of the Deutsche Post DHL Group (DPDHL), this company has established itself as an indispensable reference for urgent shipments, whether critical business correspondence or goods requiring very short delivery timeframes. Vehicles and aircraft bearing DHL's emblematic yellow and red colors operate in more than 220 countries and territories, making this company one of the most extensive logistics networks on the planet.

DHL's history began in 1969 in the United States, when three visionary entrepreneurs decided to revolutionize mail transport. Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom and Robert Lynn, whose initials form the company name, launched an innovative air courier service between San Francisco and Honolulu. This innovation made it possible to transport customs clearance documents by air before ships arrived, significantly accelerating port procedures. The concept met with immediate success and laid the foundations for a global logistics empire.

During the 1970s, DHL rapidly expanded its operations beyond American borders, establishing a presence in Europe, Asia and the Pacific. As a pioneer of the door-to-door express delivery model, the company set up regional transit platforms to accelerate package transport. In 1983, the opening of a major air hub in Cincinnati strengthened logistics capabilities in North America. Facing growing competition from other express services, DHL also developed its American domestic network during the 1980s.

• Founding date: 1969, with the launch of an express courier service between San Francisco and Honolulu
• Founders: Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom and Robert Lynn, three American entrepreneurs whose initials form the name DHL
• Parent company: Deutsche Post DHL Group, a German postal company that acquired DHL in 2002
• Headquarters: Bonn, Germany, within the Deutsche Post DHL Group headquarters
• Global workforce: Approximately 100,000 employees dedicated to the DHL Express division, out of 600,000 collaborators in the group
• Annual volume: More than 1.7 billion parcels delivered worldwide each year

From the late 1990s onward, DHL gradually came under the control of Deutsche Post, the German national postal service undergoing international expansion. Deutsche Post first acquired a majority stake in DHL in 2001, then the entire company in 2002, making DHL Express its division specialized in global express shipments. This integration allowed DHL Express to benefit from an even more extensive logistics network and substantially increased resources. Today, DHL Express is one of the main divisions of the Deutsche Post DHL Group, alongside other specialized business units such as DHL Global Forwarding for international freight, DHL Supply Chain for contract logistics, and DHL eCommerce Solutions for e-commerce deliveries.

DHL Express's market positioning is based on its ability to offer shipping times among the shortest in the industry, thanks to a fully integrated network combining air and ground transport. The company operates its own cargo aircraft fleet through DHL Aviation, ensuring daily connections between major global sorting centers. This end-to-end control of the logistics chain, including international customs clearance, allows DHL Express to guarantee reliable delivery times even to the most remote destinations. DHL Express is regularly recognized in rankings of best employers worldwide, reflecting the quality of its work environment and commitment to its employees.

Which countries does DHL Express deliver to?

DHL Express provides truly global geographic coverage, serving more than 220 countries and territories across all continents. This exceptional international presence makes DHL one of the express carriers with the widest reach in the world, capable of delivering parcels to virtually any destination, from major metropolitan areas to the most remote regions. Whether for shipments to Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa or Oceania, DHL Express has the infrastructure and partnerships necessary to transport parcels reliably and quickly.

DHL Express's global network is built around strategically located sorting centers on each continent, which allow packages to be centralized and then rapidly redistributed to their final destination. Three major air hubs form the core of this logistics system: Leipzig in Germany for Europe, Cincinnati in the United States for the Americas, and Hong Kong for the Asia-Pacific region. These giant sorting platforms ensure daily connections between major world cities, allowing express shipments to be transported within very short timeframes.

• Europe: Delivery in all European Union countries and beyond, with typical timeframes of 1 to 3 business days depending on destinations
• North America: United States, Canada and Mexico served daily from the Cincinnati hub
• Latin America: Complete coverage of Central and South America, including Brazil, Argentina, Chile and all other countries in the region
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and all Asian countries, with Hong Kong as the regional hub
• Middle East and Africa: United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and all countries in these regions
• Remote and island territories: DHL Express also serves the overseas territories of many countries around the world

For emerging or hard-to-reach markets, DHL relies on local partnerships with national postal operators and regional carriers. This international presence is accompanied by thorough knowledge of local regulations and customs procedures for each country served. DHL Express teams are trained to handle the administrative specifics of each destination, facilitating customs clearance for international shipments. With more than 111,800 service points worldwide, DHL offers remarkable accessibility for both shipping and receiving parcels.

DHL Express's strength also lies in its ability to offer guaranteed delivery times to most global destinations. The DHL Express Worldwide service, for example, enables next-business-day delivery to major European cities and 2 to 5 business days delivery to the rest of the world. For the most urgent shipments, DHL Express 9:00 and DHL Express 12:00 services guarantee delivery before 9am or noon at major international business centers.

What are DHL Express services and delivery times?

DHL Express offers a comprehensive range of express delivery services designed to meet all urgency levels and budgets. From premium service with guaranteed next-morning delivery to more economical options for less time-sensitive shipments, every customer can find the formula suited to their needs. The common feature of all these services remains the quality of tracking and reliability of promised timeframes, which have built DHL Express's worldwide reputation.

DHL Express's flagship service is DHL Express Worldwide, which offers express delivery to more than 220 destinations in the shortest possible timeframes. This service typically ensures next-business-day delivery for European destinations and 2 to 5 business days delivery to the rest of the world. It serves businesses and individuals needing to send documents or parcels with excellent value for money while benefiting from DHL's network reliability.

• DHL Express 9:00: Priority delivery service guaranteeing parcel delivery on the first possible business day before 9:00 am. Available to major business centers in Europe, United States, Asia and Middle East. This service includes a refund guarantee if the timeframe is not met.
• DHL Express 12:00: Express delivery guaranteed before noon on the first possible business day. Covers a broader geographic area than the 9:00 service while also offering a refund guarantee.
• DHL Express Worldwide: Standard express service offering the best possible delivery times without specific time commitment. Delivery by end of day, typically before 6:00 pm, with delivery times of 1 to 5 days depending on destination.
• DHL Economy Select: Economical international service for less urgent European deliveries. Delivery times between 2 and 5 business days, with more competitive rates than standard express services.
• DHL Same Day: Same-day delivery service with a vehicle exclusively dedicated to your shipment. Available in most major European cities for the most urgent shipments.

DHL Express delivery times vary depending on destinations. For intra-European shipments, DHL Express generally offers 1-business-day delivery between major European cities such as London, Brussels, Amsterdam, Frankfurt or Milan. Shipments to the United States typically arrive in 2 to 3 business days from Europe, while Asian destinations such as China, Japan or Singapore generally require 2 to 4 business days.

DHL Express also offers Saturday shipping for an additional charge determined based on destination and parcel weight. This option proves particularly useful for urgent business shipments that must arrive before the weekend or for deliveries to individuals only available on Saturday. However, DHL does not offer Sunday delivery. Guaranteed services such as DHL Express 9:00 and 12:00 include a refund guarantee: if the promised timeframe is not met, the customer can request reimbursement of shipping fees.

For urgent document shipments, DHL Express offers prepaid envelopes allowing you to ship up to 300 grams of documents. This solution proves practical for critical business correspondence such as contracts, identification documents or legal papers. Parcels can reach much higher weights, with services adapted for bulky or heavy shipments.

What are DHL Express rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

DHL Express applies a rate schedule based on several criteria: shipment weight, dimensions, destination, service selected and any additional options. Understanding these different elements helps better anticipate the cost of a shipment and optimize your shipments. DHL publishes an updated service and rate guide annually, with revisions typically applied at the beginning of the year.

DHL Express rate calculation is based on the concept of billable weight, which corresponds to the maximum between the actual parcel weight and its volumetric weight. Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying the three dimensions of the parcel (length × width × height in centimeters) then dividing the result by 5000. For example, a parcel of 50 cm × 30 cm × 20 cm will have a volumetric weight of (50 × 30 × 20) / 5000 = 6 kg. If this parcel weighs 3 kg in reality, it is the volumetric weight of 6 kg that will be retained for billing.

• Maximum weight per parcel: 70 kg for standard parcels that can be handled by a single person. Beyond 30 kg, DHL requires that the parcel be palletized to facilitate handling and ensure worker safety.
• Maximum weight per shipment: Up to 1000 kg for multi-parcel shipments or on pallet, subject to prior validation by DHL.
• Standard maximum dimensions: Length 120 cm × Width 80 cm × Height 80 cm per parcel. This limit corresponds to the dimensions of a standard European pallet.
• Maximum length: 300 cm for individual items, with specific handling and transport conditions.
• Maximum perimeter: 360 cm calculated according to the formula (length + 2 × width + 2 × height).

DHL Express rates vary considerably depending on destination and service selected. As an indication, for a standard 1 kg shipment to major European countries, rates generally start around 25 to 40 euros excluding taxes for the DHL Express Worldwide service. Intercontinental shipments to the United States or Asia are typically in the range of 40 to 70 euros for the same weight. The guaranteed 9:00 and 12:00 services apply a significant surcharge compared to standard service, justified by the time guarantee and refund on delay.

Several factors can influence the final rate of a DHL Express shipment. Remote or hard-to-reach areas may be subject to a "remote area" surcharge. Shipments exceeding certain dimensions or weights trigger special handling fees. The nature of goods can also impact price, particularly for products requiring special transport conditions such as perishable items or authorized dangerous goods. To obtain an accurate quote, DHL provides an online calculation tool on its MyDHL+ website that takes all these parameters into account.

Parcels exceeding 50 kg actual weight require prior notification to DHL for worker safety reasons. Items over 70 kg must be packaged in a crate that can be handled by forklift or firmly secured on a stackable pallet. For any shipment exceeding 1000 kg or presenting exceptional characteristics, contact a DHL commercial advisor directly to obtain a custom solution.

What are DHL Express delivery options?

DHL Express offers a wide range of delivery options to adapt to each recipient's constraints and preferences. Aware that flexibility has become an essential criterion for customers, the carrier has developed the On Demand Delivery service which allows personalizing parcel reception terms. These options greatly enhance customer satisfaction by reducing delivery failures and constraints related to waiting for the courier.

Home delivery remains the preferred reception method for DHL Express parcels. The courier presents at the address indicated by the sender, generally during the day during business hours. For international express shipments, delivery typically occurs before 6:00 pm, except for guaranteed 9:00 and 12:00 services which ensure earlier morning delivery. If absent, the courier may leave the parcel with a neighbor or in a secure location if the sender or recipient has given prior authorization.

• Delivery to pickup point: DHL has an extensive network of Service Points worldwide, including partner retailers and DHL agencies. These points allow depositing or picking up parcels with extended hours, often in the evening and on weekends.
• Automated lockers: DHL automated lockers are available in many countries, allowing 24/7 pickup using an unlock code sent by SMS.
• Neighbor relay networks: In some countries, DHL has partnered with collaborative delivery services, allowing parcels to be delivered to a neighbor registered as a drop-off point.
• Redirect to another address: Via the On Demand Delivery service, the recipient can request that their parcel be delivered to a different address from the originally planned one, for example their workplace.
• Postpone delivery: It is possible to postpone delivery for up to 30 days and choose a later date that better suits the recipient.
• Delivery with authorization to leave: The recipient can authorize the courier to leave the parcel at a specific location of their home in their absence.

DHL Express's On Demand Delivery service allows the recipient to take control of their delivery as soon as they receive the shipping notification. Via a link sent by email or SMS, they access a portal where they can change the delivery address, schedule a specific date, request delivery to a pickup point or automated locker. This flexibility proves particularly appreciated by professionals and individuals whose schedules do not allow them to wait for the courier's arrival.

Regarding pickup timeframes at pickup points or lockers, the recipient generally has 7 days to collect their parcel after notification. After this period, the parcel is automatically returned to the sender. DHL pickup points are selected for their extended opening hours, often accessible in the evening after regular business hours and on weekends. This accessibility enhances the service's practicality for busy recipients.

DHL also offers a free "Smart" option in some countries, which allows ordering a parcel online and depositing it at a pickup point without having to print a shipping label. This eco-responsible and practical solution is attracting more and more occasional shippers who do not have a printer. The barcode displayed on smartphone is sufficient to identify the parcel when depositing.

What should I do if my DHL Express parcel is lost or damaged?

Despite precautions taken by DHL Express, a parcel may be lost or arrive damaged. In these situations, the carrier has implemented clear claim procedures allowing customers to assert their rights and obtain compensation. It is essential to respond quickly and respect the given timeframes to maximize the chances of a favorable outcome.

When receiving a damaged parcel, the first step is to document the damage before even opening the packaging. Take detailed photographs of the outer packaging, clearly showing visible impacts, tears or crushing. If possible, also photograph the parcel before unloading from the delivery vehicle. Then proceed with opening the parcel while documenting each step and photograph both the damaged goods and packing material used. These visual proofs will be essential for building your claim file.

• Timeframe to report visible damage: Immediately upon receipt, by stating precise reservations on the delivery receipt
• Timeframe to report non-visible damage: Maximum 7 days after receiving the goods
• Timeframe to report delivery delay: 14 calendar days from the shipping date for guaranteed services
• DHL response timeframe: Maximum 60 days after receiving the complete claim

To file a claim with DHL Express, several channels are available. By phone, you can reach the claims service at 0825 10 10 80 for professionals or 0809 400 213 for individuals (non-premium number). By mail, send your claim by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt to: DHL International Express, Immeuble Le Mermoz, 53 Avenue Jean Jaurès, CS 80014, 93351 LE BOURGET CEDEX. It is also possible to file a claim online via your MyDHL+ customer account.

Your claim file must include several essential elements: the shipment tracking number, a detailed description of the problem encountered, photographs of the packaging and damaged goods, proof of goods value (purchase invoice, repair estimate), and if possible the preserved packaging material for expert assessment. The more complete your file, the faster and more efficient the processing.

Regarding compensation, without additional insurance, the standard reimbursement offered by DHL Express is generally limited to approximately 25 euros per kilogram of goods. The maximum compensation amount is capped at 2000 euros. For high-value shipments, it is therefore strongly recommended to purchase shipping insurance when booking. DHL Express insurance generally starts at 3% of the declared parcel value for outgoing shipments and 1% for incoming shipments, with variations depending on countries.

If DHL's response does not satisfy you, you have additional remedies. You can contact a consumer association to assist you with your proceedings. The E-Commerce Ombudsman can also be contacted if the dispute concerns an online purchase. As a last resort, competent courts can be seized to settle the dispute. In all cases, carefully preserve all correspondence and documents related to your claim.

Does DHL Express handle international shipments and customs procedures?

DHL Express has historically specialized in international shipments and possesses recognized expertise in customs procedures. Since its founding in 1969, the company has developed pointed skills to facilitate customs clearance for parcels and documents transiting between different countries. This customs clearance mastery is one of DHL Express's main competitive advantages over other carriers, particularly for shipments outside the European Union.

For any international shipment outside the European Union, customs procedures are necessary both for export and import. DHL Express handles these procedures on behalf of its customers, for a management fee included in the rate or billed separately depending on the case. DHL's customs clearance specialists thoroughly understand each country's regulations and can anticipate potential issues that might delay a shipment.

• Customs declaration: DHL establishes the customs declaration (CN23 for parcels, commercial invoice for goods) based on information provided by the sender
• HS Code (Harmonized System): Each article must be identified by a minimum 6-digit customs code to determine applicable duties
• EORI number: Mandatory for professionals conducting import-export operations within the European Union
• Commercial invoice: Essential document mentioning detailed description of goods, their value, their origin and the parties' coordinates
• Specific certificates: Depending on goods nature (health certificates, phytosanitary, compliance, etc.)

Regarding import duties and taxes, the general rule is that the recipient is liable. When a DHL parcel arrives from a third country, the recipient must generally pay import duties (if value exceeds current thresholds), import VAT according to the destination country's rates, and DHL management fees for advance tax payments and completion of procedures. DHL notifies the recipient by SMS or email with a secure payment link allowing payment of these amounts before delivery.

For senders wishing to offer their recipients a no-charge experience, DHL offers the Duty Tax Paid (DTP) service. With this option, the sender covers all import duties and taxes, which are then billed to them. This solution proves particularly appreciated by e-commerce businesses wishing to offer "all-inclusive" prices to their international customers, avoiding unpleasant surprises upon receipt.

DHL has developed several digital tools to facilitate customs procedures management. The MyGTS platform (My Global Trade Services) is a free tool allowing you to plan and manage all aspects of international shipment, including duty estimation, required document generation and customs procedure tracking. These resources are particularly intended for SMEs launching into export and needing assistance in mastering customs procedures.

Additional timeframes related to customs clearance vary depending on destinations and goods nature. For standard shipments to countries with which exchanges are smooth, customs clearance generally occurs within a few hours. However, some countries apply stricter controls that can extend timeframes by several days. Goods requiring special authorizations (food products, medicines, electronic products, etc.) may also be subject to thorough inspections. DHL keeps its customers informed of customs procedure progress via the online tracking system.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track a DHL Express parcel online, different statuses may appear as it travels. Each status corresponds to a precise step in your shipment's journey, from collection to final delivery. Here are the main statuses and their meaning: