How to Start Shipping with DHL in 6 Easy Steps

This guide will walk you through the essential steps of how to start shipping with DHL, covering everything from understanding your package to leveraging our delivery process. Whether you’re sending a single parcel or preparing for regular international shipments, these steps will help you confidently navigate global delivery from Singapore.

The basics of shipping: A step-by-step guide

Every shipment has a sender, also known as the shipper, and a receiver, also known as the consignee. DHL Express is an international shipping service provider offering door-to-door service, including collection, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery. Here’s a breakdown of the initial steps to help you start your shipping journey.

1. Understand your shipment

Knowing the details of your shipment is the very first step to sending your parcels overseas. This includes:

• Stating what your item is. Be specific – instead of "clothes," specify "cotton t-shirts."
• Declaring the commercial value of your goods. This is crucial for customs purposes and affects potential duties and taxes.
• Measuring the precise weight of your packed shipment.
• Noting the length, width, and height of your package.

These details will help you determine which DHL Express product would best suit your needs for sending your package overseas and enable an accurate shipping fee estimation.

2. Know your receiver

Providing accurate and valid consignee information is crucial for optimal routing and final delivery of your international parcel. This includes:

• Ensuring that you have the receiver's full name, complete physical address (including apartment or unit numbers if applicable), and a valid local phone number and email address. This allows DHL Express couriers to reach out before delivery to confirm availability.
• If the receiver has any specific delivery instructions or preferred times, noting these down early can help prevent missed deliveries.

3. Prepare your documents

At DHL Express, we aim to make sending parcels overseas as simple as possible. Typically, each shipment only requires an air waybill and a commercial invoice. If you are shipping personal items overseas, including documents, no invoice is necessary.

However, make sure to prepare your documents accordingly. If you’re sending goods from Singapore, this may include: 

• Bill of Lading
• Certificate of Origin (COO)
• Export permit¹
• Packing list
• Insurance certificate
• Inspection certificate
• Customs declaration

Attach them to your shipment for easy access by customs and delivery personnel. You can use our free MyGTS tool to check which documents are necessary for your shipment.

DHL Express can also help you with the shipping documents. The online tools can assist with generating the correct forms, ensuring your paperwork is accurate and complete, which is vital for a smooth customs clearance in Singapore and your shipment’s destination.

4. Packing your shipment

If you’re wondering how to ship a package internationally, bear in mind that you are responsible for packing your own shipment. Alternatively, you can consider these steps:

• Use sturdy, new boxes. Avoid reusing old boxes that may have compromised integrity.
• Ensure your box does not have excessive empty space. This prevents the contents from shifting and reduces the risk of damage. For guidance on how to pack large items for shipping, you can refer to DHL’s packaging guide.
• Use ample cushioning materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam inserts to protect contents from impacts and vibrations. Each item should ideally be wrapped individually.
• Use strong packing tape to seal all seams and edges of the box. Reinforce corners for heavier items.

5. Handover your shipment to DHL Express

Once your shipment is packed and documented, handing it over to DHL Express is simple. You can either:

• Drop off your shipment at any of DHL Express’ service outlets.
• Schedule a collection at your convenience, often at no additional charge. This can typically be done by calling our customer service team at 1800 285 8888, or you can do it via ShipNow.

6. Let us take care of the rest

And that’s it! Once your shipment has been collected by a DHL Express courier or is in our care, you can trust our team of international specialists to get your shipment delivered in the quickest way possible. You can track the status of your shipment by keying in your ten-digit DHL waybill number on the website or via the DHL Express mobile app. This is a core part of how DHL Express works and provides peace of mind throughout your shipment’s journey.