Learn more about DHL Breakbulk

What does Breakbulk mean in shipping terms?

Breakbulk shipping is a systemised door-to-door pick-up of an already consolidated (physically or virtually) shipment sent from one customs zone to another, with a consolidated clearance at the both origin and destination gateway and subsequent delivery of individual shipments to different receivers. This shipping service is popular amongst shippers that want to benefit from an optimised customs clearance process in the name of a single Importer of Record.

How you can benefit from Breakbulk shipping

Breakbulk is a shipping solution that allows businesses to benefit from an optimised customs clearance process in the name of a single Importer of Record at destination. After the customs clearance is completed, the consolidated bulk or “mother” shipment is broken down and the pre-labeled individual “baby” shipments are delivered to their respective receivers.

With DHL Express you can opt for a faster service utilising DHL's global air network with DHL Breakbulk Express (BBX), or select a slower, more cost-effective service into Europe via DHL's European Road network with DHL Breakbulk Economy (BBE). 

Key benefits 

• Simplified Customs clearance:  The consolidated customs clearance offered by breakbulk services significantly simplifies compliance and reduces the burden of individual declarations for each parcel. 
• Efficient de-consolidation after clearance: After the clearance process is completed, DHL Express will de-consolidate or “break down” the mother shipment into the individual consignments for final distribution and delivery.    
• Expedited delivery: BBX leverages DHL Express' extensive global network and time-definite express services to achieve speedy delivery times, typically within 3-4 days. 
• Cost-effective delivery: BBE allows you to send more cost-effectively into Europe via DHL's European Road Network, typically within 3-7 days.
• Reduced clearance cost:  The consolidation of multiple shipments under one waybill and customs invoice can translate into cost savings for businesses, which could enable you to offer a lower sales price to the final receiver.
• Streamlined documentation: The Breakbulk process simplifies documentation significantly. Instead of generating multiple waybills and invoices for each individual shipment, a single set of shipping documents is created for the entire consolidated shipment.
• Enhanced supply chain efficiency: A cost-effective alternative to operating warehouse and distribution facilities in foreign markets. Costs of distribution centers at destination can be eliminated and inventory carrying costs are significantly reduced. This can be especially important to UK businesses post-Brexit. 

What are the requirements for DHL Breakbulk?

Businesses can leverage the benefits of DHL Breakbulk by meeting the following account criteria:

• Contractual agreement: You'll need a formal agreement with DHL Express to utilise our Breakbulk solutions.
• Single import gateway: All your shipments moving under the same consolidated waybill, need to head to the same entry point in the destination country. 
• Trade Compliance: Importer or Record (IOR) for destination Regulatory Authority.
• Good data quality: Complete and accurate data is crucial, for example:

a) full legal name of Receiver for each individual shipment (often called baby shipments)

b) Commercial consolidated invoice with detailed line items

c) Provide electronic data with comprehensive details about each individual shipment (often called "baby" shipments) within the consolidated shipment this is line item commercial invoice for shipment ("mother" shipment), such as HTS commodity codes, goods description, country of origin, value, inco term etc. 

• Currency consistency: Keep it simple for customs – make sure all your item values are listed in the same currency.
• Specific customs invoice: Only a DEC (detailed customs) invoice can be used for the mother waybill, as this consolidates all line item details for customs clearance.
   

Environmental impact

DHL Express is committed to developing eco-friendly logistics processes to mitigate these environmental challenges. One example is GoGreen Plus, a dedicated solution to help businesses reduce the carbon emissions associated with their shipments through the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel. SAF is a biofuel that is produced from renewable sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats, waste products, and agricultural crops. SAF is specifically designed to be used as a substitute for traditional jet fuel and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to fossil fuels.  

To ensure the smooth execution of breakbulk logistics operations, consider the following:

Proper packaging

Secure packaging is key in breakbulk shipping to prevent any damage during transit. So, be sure to utilise robust packing materials and techniques that are appropriate for the shipments weight, size, and vulnerability.

Accurate Electronic data and documentation

For both your electronic data and documentation,  accurate and complete information is crucial for seamless breakbulk shipping. This includes detailed content descriptions, including HTS classification code for export and import and strict adherence to international shipping regulations. By meticulously transmitting all necessary shipment commercial invoice data and paperwork, such as, line item data at consolidated level, and packing lists, you can reduce delays during customs clearance.

Setting up DHL Express Breakbulk

Our DHL EXPRESS BREAKBULK services can streamline your entire shipping operation, from costs to efficiency in clearing customs to less paperwork on your end. DHL Express is committed to offering faster deliveries and creating solutions for your logistics issues using the most advanced technology. A variety of add-on services are available and ensure your shipments are guaranteed safe arrival at their destinations.

Reach out to learn more about our breakbulk shipping terms and rates when planning your logistics strategy. Start by opening a business account with DHL Express, and take advantage of the breakbulk logistics services to set your business apart from its competition.