DHL Express Complete Guide: Services, Rates & Tips

DHL Express is the world leader in international express shipping. Here's everything you need to know about using DHL for your shipments.

DHL Overview

Company Facts

• Founded: 1969
• Presence: 220+ countries
• Daily shipments: 6+ million
• Owned by: Deutsche Post DHL Group
• Specialty: International express

DHL vs Competitors

DHL Express Services

Express Worldwide

Main service for most international shipments:

• Transit: 2-4 business days
• Tracking: Full visibility
• Signature: Required
• Insurance: Up to $100 included

Time Definite Services

Economy Select

Budget international option:

• Transit: 4-8 business days
• Cost: 20-40% less than Express
• Coverage: Limited routes
• Best for: Non-urgent, cost-conscious

DHL eCommerce

For e-commerce shippers:

• Packet International: Small parcels to 4.4 lbs
• Parcel International: Larger parcels
• Hybrid service: DHL + local postal delivery

DHL Pricing Explained

Pricing Components

Zone System

DHL divides the world into zones:

Sample Rates (1 lb document)

atoship DHL Discounts

Save significantly with atoship:

DHL Shipping Tips

Reduce Costs

Use economy when possible: Save 20-40%

Ship documents, not parcels: Lower rates

Consolidate shipments: Multiple items in one

Avoid residential surcharges: Ship to business

Speed Up Delivery

Complete paperwork correctly: Avoid customs delays

Use correct HS codes: Faster clearance

Prepay duties (DDP): No recipient delays

Schedule pickup early: Same-day processing

Packaging for DHL

• Use DHL-branded packaging (free)
• Secure items to prevent movement
• Include documentation inside and outside
• Label clearly with tracking number

DHL Customs Services

Duties & Taxes Options

DHL Customs Advantages

• 24/7 customs teams: Fastest clearance
• Pre-clearance: Before arrival
• Broker network: Every country
• Duty calculator: Estimate costs

DHL Technology

MyDHL+

Online shipping platform:

• Create shipments
• Schedule pickups
• Track packages
• Generate reports

DHL APIs

For integration:

• Shipment API
• Tracking API
• Rate API
• Address validation

DHL Express App

Mobile features:

• Ship on the go
• Track shipments
• Find locations
• Get alerts

Common DHL Issues

Issue: Remote Area Surcharges

Solution: Check address before shipping, consider alternative addresses

Issue: Customs Delays

Solution: Complete accurate paperwork, include commercial invoice

Issue: Duty Disputes

Solution: Provide accurate HS codes and values, use DHL customs support

Issue: Delivery Attempts

Solution: Provide business address, schedule specific delivery

DHL Best Practices

For E-commerce Sellers

Integrate DHL with your platform

Offer DHL Express as premium option

Use DDP for key markets

Track and communicate delivery times

For B2B Shippers

Set up DHL account for volume discounts

Schedule regular pickups

Use DHL's customs brokerage

Implement DHL APIs

Conclusion

DHL Express excels at international shipping with the widest global network and fastest customs clearance. Access DHL discounts through atoship to save up to 89% on express international shipping while benefiting from DHL's world-class service.