Today, the demand for quick and convenient shipping solutions is on a rapid rise. As CXO Today reports, 60% of buyers, especially in India's urban areas, now expect same-day deliveries, while 30% prefer options under two hours, particularly for essentials like groceries and medicines1. This highlights the growing need for express delivery and courier services. However, individuals and businesses often face challenges in finding reliable and accessible courier companies near them, especially when it comes to international courier services.
And unfortunately, missed delivery timelines can severely impact customer trust and operational costs. According to Sendcloud, 23% of shoppers won't return to a business after a single delayed delivery, and 21% lose trust in the brand. Even worse, 17% actively discourage others from shopping there2.
DHL Express offers a readily accessible solution for sending international couriers, with a vast network of DHL Service Point locations. If you're searching for "international courier services near me," this blog will guide you through how to utilize our international courier services for quick, reliable, and convenient shipping.
Preparing your shipment for international couriers
Before heading to a DHL Service Point near you, proper shipment preparation is essential for smooth and efficient international shipping. This involves the following:
- Packaging: Ensuring your items are properly packaged to withstand the rigors of international shipping is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring that your parcel arrives at its destination in good condition. Use sturdy boxes that are appropriately sized for your items, and fill any empty spaces with cushioning materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam inserts to prevent your items from shifting and getting damaged during transit. Also, seal the package securely with strong tape to prevent it from opening during handling.
Logistics providers like DHL Express also offer a wide range of packaging solutions to simplify this process. These boxes are provided free of cost, and shippers can often receive a discount on their shipment by choosing a pre-designed box. Simply ask a DHL Express executive for “Express Easy” boxes to take advantage of these convenient and cost-effective packaging options.
- Labeling: Accurate labeling is essential for ensuring that your shipment reaches its intended recipient without delays or misrouting. Clearly and legibly write the recipient's full name, complete address (including postal code and country), and contact information on the package.
- Documentation: International shipping often requires specific documents, such as a commercial invoice, air waybill, and certificate of origin. These documents provide essential information about the shipment's contents, value, and origin, which is necessary for customs clearance. If you're unsure about the required documents, our DHL Service Points can offer assistance and guidance to ensure compliance with international shipping regulations.
Locate your nearest DHL Service Point
Our widespread network allows for convenient drop-offs and collections, whether you're shipping domestically or internationally. You can easily locate your nearest authorized DHL Service Point using our online locator tool. With 255 retail Service Points across India and connections with over 220 countries and territories, DHL Express makes sending parcels internationally easier than ever.
Take note of prohibited items
Certain items are prohibited from shipping through the DHL Express network due to safety, security, or legal restrictions. These may include:
- Dangerous goods (e.g., explosives, flammable liquids)
- Illegal items (e.g., drugs, counterfeit goods)
- Live animals
- Perishable goods
It's also important to note that there are also items that are restricted or prohibited from being imported into the destination country, which will differ per region. Therefore, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items and ensure your shipment complies with these regulations. Failure to do so can result in delays, fines, or even confiscation of your shipment.
Selecting your service at your nearest DHL Service Point
DHL Express offers a range of courier services to cater to ensure your parcel arrives on time and safely, whether the destination is near you or across the globe:
- Express Worldwide: Our fastest express international shipping option, ideal for urgent deliveries.
- Express 9:00: Our international shipping solution that ensures delivery by 9:00 am to major destinations worldwide.
- Express 12:00: Our international shipping solution that ensures delivery by 12:00 pm to major destinations worldwide.
These services offer door-to-door service, proactive shipment tracking, and online tracking, providing you with complete visibility and peace of mind. DHL Express also offers specialized services, such as:
Express Easy Box
This option provides convenient and affordable pre-paid packaging solutions for individuals shipping small to medium-sized items. Plus, various box sizes and weight options are available to cater to different needs.
Mango Express
During peak mango harvest seasons in India (April to July), DHL Express offers a specialized service for sending mango gift packs abroad. This allows individuals to share the taste of India with loved ones overseas.
Pickle Express
DHL Express' Pickle Express service caters to the tradition of sending pickle jars abroad, especially during peak pickle-making season in India (February to May). This unique service ensures that these culturally significant food items are packaged and shipped appropriately.
University Express
For students applying to universities abroad, DHL Express' University Express service offers swift and secure delivery of important documents, ensuring applications reach their destinations on time.
Retail Service Points
Enquire at your nearest DHL Service Point about any ongoing special discounts or promotions available for various services.
Sending your shipment with DHL Express
Shipping with DHL Express is a straightforward process, all you need to do is:
- Pack and label your shipment according to the guidelines mentioned earlier.
- Visit your nearest DHL Service Point.
- Approach our friendly staff to select the appropriate service and process your shipment. Alternatively, you may also pre-book your shipments online through MyDHL+ for faster processing at the DHL Service Point.
Local DHL Service Points accept credit cards, debit cards and mobile payments for your convenience.
Track Your shipment
How can you track your shipment? It's easy: after sending your parcel, you use our DHL Express tracking tool. Simply enter your tracking number on the DHL website or mobile app to receive updates on your shipment's location and status. This also allows you to keep your customers informed about their deliveries, helping them anticipate the arrival of their packages and enhancing their overall experience.
Experience the convenience of DHL Express
DHL Express makes sending international parcels easy and accessible. With our extensive network of Service Points, door-to-door service, and comprehensive support, you can find a courier service near you with shipping solutions that suit your needs. Whether you require fast courier service near you for urgent deliveries or are looking for reliable international courier services near you, DHL Express offers a range of solutions to meet your requirements.
Visit your nearest DHL Service Point or explore our online services to experience the convenience, speed, and reliability of shipping with DHL Express. We are committed to providing exceptional courier service and fast shipping, ensuring your shipments reach their destinations safely and on time.
Enquire now and our international shipment experts will call you shortly to discuss your specific needs and help you find the best solutions for your international and local shipping operations.
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