International Shipping with DHL Express

If you’re looking to start shipping internationally for the first time, we recommend reviewing our Guide to International Shipping to get detailed information about customs documents, duty, and other areas to consider when going international. This post is an expansion on what to consider when deciding which carriers to use when going international. 

Based on our Guide to International Shipping, many businesses have asked us to dive deeper into the nuts and bolts of implementing alternative carriers for their international shipments. So we’re highlighting one that our customers get immediate access to when signing up with Shippo.

DHL is part of the world’s leading postal and logistics company Deutsche Post DHL Group with a global network in over 220 countries and territories around the world. DHL Express is the cross-border shipping branch of DHL, specialized in international shipping between countries.

DHL Express rates

While DHL Express is a premium cross-border service, it doesn’t have to come with a premium price. Through our partnership with DHL Express, all U.S.-outbound businesses using Shippo have access to great discounts with DHL Express immediately upon sign up. Here’s a cost comparison:

Shippo automatically generates all the necessary customs documents and the commercial invoice within one workflow. To see what it’s like to create an international shipping label and the cost of shipping, plug in a few test orders on the app.

4,500 service locations worldwide

Since DHL is a global carrier, they partner with local service centers across the world to accept drop-offs. To locate one, you can use DHL’s service point locator. Or, once you’ve purchased a DHL Express label, you can also schedule a free pickup through Shippo.

One of the world’s largest customs brokers

Once your shipment is with DHL Express, they work to confirm that your customs paperwork is relevant and accurate at all times. As a registered customs broker, DHL will manage all questions from the import country authority on your behalf.

Especially if you ship high value products over $2500, DHL Express will be able to help you file export documentation (at an additional service charge) like getting an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) generated by the Automated Export System (AES).

During the holidays, this process will help expedite the export and import process, preventing your shipment from getting stuck at the borders.

Accurate tracking updates

Once the shipment is cleared, DHL Express will continue being your delivery provider ensuring that the package arrives at its destination. Unlike using national postal services, your shipment will not be passed onto another carrier’s hands.

This means two things:

1. If you’re shipping premium or fragile products, your shipment will receive the same standard of care from pick-up to delivery
2. You and your customer will receive accurate, up-to-date tracking statuses of the shipment as it moves through DHL’s global network

Adding shipping insurance

Unfortunately, DHL Express does not include any insurance with its package. However, through Shippo, you can purchase DHL Express insurance via our partner Shipsurance.

Insurance is especially important for international shipments since they are prone to loss or breakage due to many points of hand off. The risk may be higher depending on the country you’re shipping to.

DHL Express is a great international carrier option for your business. Its premium cross-border services can minimize headaches and impress your international customers. Access DHL Express on Shippo by signing up.

Shippo is a multi-carrier API and web app that helps retailers, marketplaces and platforms connect to a global network of carriers. Businesses use Shippo to get real-time rates, print labels, automate international paperwork, track packages and facilitate returns. Shippo provides the tools to help businesses succeed through shipping.