Getting Started

Shipping with DHL Express usually follows a simple process. First, carefully pack your items and then prepare your shipment details online, including the sender and receiver information, parcel weight and dimensions, and a description of the contents. Then you create the shipment, print the label if needed, and hand the parcel over to DHL Express by pickup or drop-off. After that, the shipment moves through the network, clears customs if required, and is delivered to the receiver.

Businesses can create an online shipping account with DHL Express and then create and send shipments. If you don't want to open an account, or you're not a business and have personal shipments to send, our simple and convenient non-account services allow you to create a shipment online, choose to drop-off your parcel at a DHL Servicepoint or book a collection via Customer Service.

Once your shipment is created, you’ll be able to access the shipping label and any required documents. Once your shipping label and any other documentation is attached to your parcel, you can arrange a collection or drop the parcel off at a DHL ServicePoint. You will receive a proof of drop-off or waybill that you can use to track its progress until delivery.

For international shipments, customs clearance begins before the shipment is loaded onto an aeroplane. Customs information is sent ahead electronically to the destination country whose authorities may review the shipment details, documents, and declared contents before the parcel arrives in the country and can be delivered.

Once the shipment reaches the destination country and clears any required customs checks, it is scheduled for delivery. In some cases, the sender or receiver may be contacted if more information, duties, or taxes are required before final delivery. DHL Express, as your customs agent, will help to make this as easy as possible.

You’ll usually need to specify the:

• DHL Express service you want to use (Express Worldwide, time-definite etc.)
• Sender’s and recipient’s full name, address and contact details
• Parcel weight and dimensions
• Number of pieces in the shipment (one shipment can contain a number of parcels)
• Clear description of the contents
• Shipment value

Plus:

• Any documents needed for international shipping
• Any special handling or service requirements (fragile, temperature controlled etc.)
• Billing account number or payment method

It is best to use accurate weight and dimensions whenever possible. This helps you get the right price, choose the right service, and avoid delays or billing adjustments later.

Not always. Some shipping and return options may allow digital workflows, but many shipments still require a printed label or supporting documents. If you are unsure, check the shipment options available when you create the shipment.

You should have the receiver’s full name, delivery address, postcode, country, phone number, and email address if available. Accurate receiver details help avoid failed delivery attempts and delays.

Yes, in many cases you can use your own packaging as long as it is strong enough for the contents and suitable for transport. The parcel should be packed and taped securely to protect the contents throughout handling and transit.

A shipping label should clearly show the sender and receiver details plus contact information, a full description of the consignment’s contents, what the goods are, the quantity of each, the number of packages/pieces in the consignment and the total weight and dimensions of the consignment.

First, check that the consignment has been completed successfully and that the label file has fully loaded. Then check your printer connection and settings. If the problem continues, try reopening the label or creating it again from your shipment record.

Check that your printer is connected, switched on, and set up correctly. If the issue continues, try another browser, device, or printer if available. If documents are still not printing, use the help options in your shipping tool or contact customer service.

That depends on what is most convenient for you. A collection is best if you have a number of, or heavy parcels, or a timed, scheduled collection is important. A drop-off may work better for you if you only have a single package or are near a ServicePoint or DHL Express drop-off location.

You can use the DHL Express location finder to search for nearby service points, opening hours, and available services.

Confirm if the parcel is packed correctly, labelled properly, and booked under the right shipment details (for instance, does it contain prohibited goods?). In some cases, the parcel may be too large, too heavy, or was not ready for collection at the agreed time. If this happens, review your shipment details and get in touch with us to rearrange your pickup.

Large or heavy shipments may need a different vehicle, service, or handling process. If your parcel cannot be collected as booked, review the shipment details and contact customer service for the best next step.

Shipment Value Protection or Shipping Insurance is an option that can provide additional cover for the value of your goods while they are in transit. Charges are applied based on the origin of the consignment and the total value of the goods.

You may want to consider shipment insurance if the contents are valuable, difficult to replace, or commercially important.

No. Standard carrier liability may only cover a fraction of the shipment’s value – calculated per kilogram rather than on the actual goods value. Shipment Insurance can cover up to the full declared value of the shipment.

Business shippers may need to think about account set-up, payment preferences, customs data, and regular shipping processes. If you ship often, opening a DHL Express account can make shipping easier to manage, offer volume discounts and provide greater customs brokerage support.

Extra set-up may be useful when your business ships frequently, ships internationally on a regular basis, or needs more control over billing, users, or shipment management.

The Known Shipper Programme is a security initiative managed by the Transport Security Administration. As a TSA-approved Known Shipper, your goods can be transported by both cargo and passenger aircraft, offering greater flexibility and potential cost-savings. For more information about the Known Shipper Programme and DHL Express’ participation, you can contact customer service.