DHL is a world-renowned international logistics company that provides a variety of transportation services, including international air, sea, and land transportation. Whether it is a small package or a large cargo, DHL can provide customers with efficient and reliable transportation services.
When using DHL for international cargo transportation, the cost is a concern for every company and individual, and it is an important part of planning a logistics plan. This article will introduce DHL in detail and how to calculate the cost of transportation.
Learn more: What is Express Delivery in International Trade?
Why Ship with DHL?
DHL is one of the world’s leading logistics companies, providing fast and reliable shipping services to more than 220 countries around the world. Here are some reasons why shippers can trust DHL:
- Global reach: Covering more than 220 countries, with 250 aircraft and 40,000 vehicles.
- Efficient packaging: Protect your products with simple yet effective packaging.
- Flexible opening hours: Some DHL branches are open 24/7 for added convenience.
- Real-time updates: Receive regular notifications and shipment status updates.
- Instant reports: Keep merchants and customers informed with detailed reports.
- Fast door-to-door delivery: Within 1 day for nearby cities; 2-5 days for remote areas.
- Tracking capabilities: Receive a tracking number to monitor the location of your shipment.
- Additional insurance: Protect precious or expensive goods with additional insurance.
- Innovative technology: DHL integrates advanced solutions such as drones for faster delivery.
DHL International Shipping Costs
DHL’s international transportation costs are determined by multiple factors, the most important of which include the transportation distance, the weight and volume of the goods, the selected transportation method (such as standard air transport, economic air transport, express delivery, etc.), and the policies and regulations of the destination country.
DHL usually calculates the freight based on the weight or volume of the goods, and the freight is usually per kilogram. In addition, DHL also provides customized services, such as door-to-door, door-to-port, port-to-port, etc., and the cost structure of each service is also different.
DHL Freight Pricing Basis
DHL’s pricing basis mainly includes the following aspects:
- Transportation service type: DHL provides different transportation services, such as standard air transport, express delivery, etc.
- Destination country transportation policy: Differences in tariffs, transportation regulations and logistics infrastructure in different countries and regions will also affect freight.
- Timeliness requirements: The cost of fast delivery is usually higher. If you choose fast or next-day delivery service, DHL’s freight will also increase accordingly.
- Additional fees: DHL may also charge other fees, such as fuel surcharges, remote area surcharges, overweight surcharges, etc. These fees will be adjusted according to different transportation routes and cargo conditions.
How to Calculate DHL Charges
DHL’s shipping rates depend on several factors, including the destination, weight, volume, and applicable surcharges. Here’s an overview of how DHL calculates its rates:
DHL Shipping Rate Calculation
DHL uses two main factors to calculate shipping rates:
- Actual Weight: The physical weight of the package.
- Volumetric Weight: The space a package takes up, calculated based on the dimensions of the shipment, usually in centimeters. The calculation formula is:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = Length × Width × Height ÷ 5000
DHL charges based on the greater of the actual weight or volumetric weight. For example, a package that is light in weight but large in volume will be charged based on its volumetric weight.
You may also be interested in: How to Calculate the Volume and Weight of Goods
How to Use the DHL Shipping Calculator
The DHL EasyShop service provides an online calculator for estimating shipping costs. Follow these steps to calculate your costs:
- Access the calculator: Access the DHL Shipping Calculator on the official website.
- Enter destination details: Enter the origin and destination of your shipment.
- Enter shipment data: Provide details such as weight and dimensions.
- Calculate rates: Click Calculate to view shipping costs, including taxes and duties.
How to Reduce DHL Shipping Costs?
- Pack properly: Make sure the goods are packed properly, avoid unnecessary gaps, and reduce volume weight. Try to use strong and lightweight materials to reduce the impact of packaging on the total weight.
- Combined shipping: If you have multiple packages to ship, you can consider combining them into one large package, which can reduce the shipping cost per kilogram.
- Negotiate shipping rates: Negotiate with DHL or other logistics companies to get discounts for bulk shipping or long-term cooperation.
- Choose economy service: If time is not urgent, you can choose DHL’s economy shipping service, which is usually more affordable.
DHL Prohibited Items
DHL prohibits the transport of certain items due to international law. Prohibited items include:
- Precious metals (gold, platinum, silver).
- Perishable goods (meat, fish, plants).
- Explosives, weapons and ammunition.
- Lithium batteries and electronic devices containing lithium batteries.
- Religious books and articles that violate local laws.
DHL’s shipping cost per kilogram is affected by multiple factors. Through this article, you can learn how to better calculate the shipping cost, choose the right shipping plan, and reduce the shipping cost through appropriate strategies.