How to Shift Your South African Business to Sustainable Shipping with DHL

But here’s the good news: making your supply chain greener isn’t just about saving the planet. It’s also about building a brand people love, unlocking operational efficiencies, and keeping your business future-fit.

That’s where DHL steps in. With services like GoGreen Plus and a suite of innovative tools, DHL is helping South African businesses cut their carbon footprint—without sacrificing speed or reliability.

Why Sustainable Shipping is a Game-Changer for South African Businesses

Shipping’s environmental impact is no longer something to sweep under the rug. In a country as unique and ecologically rich as South Africa, customers are choosing brands that walk the talk on sustainability. It’s not just preference—it’s expectation.

Adopting sustainable shipping can:

• Boost Brand Loyalty: South Africans are proud of their heritage and environment. Showing you care means customers are more likely to stick with you. In fact, according to the DHL Global Online Shopper Survey 2023, nearly two-thirds of European consumers said sustainable deliveries matter—a sentiment that’s growing strongly in South Africa too.

• Save Costs & Run Leaner: Smarter packaging, efficient routes, and streamlined returns don’t just cut emissions—they cut costs.

• Stay One Step Ahead of Regulations: Environmental laws are tightening. Getting your house in order now (like reporting CO₂ emissions) means you won’t be caught off guard.

DHL GoGreen Plus: Practical Sustainability for Local Businesses

At the heart of DHL’s offer is GoGreen Plus—a service built to make real, measurable cuts to your supply chain’s emissions. GoGreen Plus uses “insetting”—that means your investment goes directly toward cleaner tech and fuels inside DHL’s own network, not some far-off project.

The secret weapon? Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) made from renewable sources like used cooking oil and agricultural waste. SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to regular jet fuel. The best part: you can choose GoGreen Plus for any shipment, big or small, making it a perfect fit for South African SMEs and online sellers.

1. Measure Your Carbon Footprint

If you want to cut emissions, first you need to know where you stand. DHL’s Logistics Decarbonization Assessment is a quick, 10-question tool that gives you a personalised report on your air or ocean freight emissions—delivered straight to your inbox.

For a deeper dive, DHL’s carbon calculator breaks your emissions down into:

• Scope 1: Direct emissions from your own vehicles.

• Scope 2: Indirect emissions (like the electricity running your warehouse).

• Scope 3: Indirect supply chain emissions—including transportation.

With new South African rules requiring CO₂ reporting, understanding your baseline is critical. It lets you set clear targets—say, cutting Scope 3 emissions by 30%—and track your progress transparently.

2. Optimise Your Packaging

Before your goods even leave the warehouse, think about their packaging. Bigger boxes mean more waste (and higher costs). DHL’s OptiCarton, powered by AI, ensures every shipment is packed just right—minimising waste and saving money.

• Right-sizing: Use boxes that fit your products.

• Sustainable materials: Try compostable bags or recycled cardboard. Even a simple “less packaging” sticker can show customers you care.

3. Use GoGreen Plus for Every Shipment

This is where you make a direct dent in your emissions. With GoGreen Plus, you’re backing the use of SAF in your air freight—an actionable way to cut carbon.

• Easy activation: Using MyDHL+? Just tick a box to add GoGreen Plus to your shipments. Every cent goes toward greener tech in DHL’s network, pushing towards the goal of zero emissions by 2050.

4. Benefit from DHL’s Sustainable Fleet

DHL is investing heavily in green logistics:

• Electric vehicles: By 2030, 60% of DHL’s last-mile deliveries will be electric. In South African cities, this means more parcels delivered with zero tailpipe emissions.

• Alternative fuels: DHL Freight is rolling out electric heavy trucks and vehicles running on HVO (hydrogenated vegetable oil), which slashes emissions by up to 90% compared to diesel. Bio-LNG trucks are on the way too. While these changes start globally, they’re filtering into South African operations, giving your shipments a greener ride.

5. Close the Loop with Reverse Logistics

Sustainability isn’t just about delivery—it’s about what happens next. Reverse logistics means recycling, reusing, or repairing products to extend their life and cut waste. DHL can help you set up efficient returns that support your environmental goals—and keep customers happy.

6. Track Your Progress and Tell Your Story

DHL gives you tools to monitor your impact and certificates to prove your climate contributions. That’s not just good PR—it’s the kind of transparency customers and partners expect from forward-thinking South African businesses.

Switching to greener shipping is a journey, and DHL is with you every step of the way. When you open a business account with DHL, you unlock:

• Preferential rates tailored to your needs.

• Reliable, fast shipping—because going green shouldn’t slow you down.

• Customs and compliance expertise to simplify cross-border trade.

• Trusted logistics advice to optimise your supply chain.

South Africa is filled with businesses ready to lead the way in sustainable trade. Join them. Open a DHL business account and take a real step toward a cleaner, more competitive future.

The Bottom Line

Going green isn’t just the right thing to do for the planet—it’s the smart thing for your business. By measuring your footprint, adopting solutions like GoGreen Plus, and working with partners who share your values, your South African business can make a lasting impact. DHL is ready to help you navigate this shift with the tools, expertise, and support you need. Together, let’s build a more sustainable future for all.