DHL is one of the main shipping carriers operating around the globe, even in countries like Afghanistan and Iraq. It’s a German-owned shipping company that ships goods to 220 countries with a huge team of 600,000 people.
These stats and the efficient services of DHL can tempt any business to plan their order shipments with them. If you feel the same, there are certain DHL delivery times and weekend services that you must know about. So, without any further ado, let’s have a look at the nitty-gritty details.
Factors Influencing DHL Delivery Times
You can ensure that your customers receive DHL parcels with accurate delivery times by considering the following factors:
Shipping Cost and Speed
Swifter DHL services are more costly than slower ones. For instance, you can send a DHL Express international from the US to the UK in 1 to 3 business days for $64.07. However, if sent as DHL eCommerce Parcel Direct, your parcel will be delivered slowly but for just $46.34. There’s a major $17 difference between the two costs.
Holidays
Remember, DHL observes most bank and federal holidays. This means you can’t access them during these days, and no deliveries will be made. So, when planning to send shipments, consider potential delays that might occur due to anticipated holidays. It’s better to plan before or after them for a more streamlined experience.
Weather Conditions
Worst weather conditions, like storms, can disrupt transportation and cause shipments to be delayed. Though DHL offers rerouting to minimize delays, you can still expect a 1 to 2-day delay when delivering parcels internationally.
Custom Clearance
Customs clearance is another factor to consider when shipping goods internationally. Issues like restricted items, incomplete documentation, etc., can cause delays. Ensure all paperwork is accurate and complete to minimize delays.
Urgent Shipments
If you need to handle mission-critical shipments requiring immediate pickups and door-to-door deliveries, you can consider DHL urgent shipment services. These include express and DHL Same Day service. So, it’s important to consider the type of service you opt for when making shipments with DHL.
DHL Shipping Options and Delivery Times (Domestic)
You can browse DHL eCommerce for domestic DHL Delivery times and shipping rates for your designated locations. DHL ensures national coverage to all states and even partners with USPS to complete shipments in the last mile. The following are the main domestic delivery services in the US.
- DHL SmartMail Parcel & Parcel Plus: This service has a maximum weight limit of 15.99 lbs. and is mainly a B2C shipping service for packages.
- DHL SmartMail Bound Printed Matter: It offers book rates and cost-effective shipping for marketing, manuals, editorial material publications, etc., that are spiral-bound, stitched, glued, or stapled.
- DHL SmartMail Parcel Return: This service has a maximum weight limit of 70 lbs. and is specifically designed for returns. Merchants can opt for a variety of labels and drop-off methods.
DHL Domestic Shipping Options Service Levels
DHL SmartMail Parcel & Parcel Plus Expedited Max: 2/3 postal days
- Expedited: 2-5 average postal days
- Ground: 3-8 average postal days
DHL SmartMail Bound Printed Matter Expedited: 2-5 average postal days
- Ground: 3-8 average postal days
DHL SmartMail Parcel Return Light: 2-4 average postal days for lightweight packages that are less than 16 oz.
- Plus: 1-3 average postal days for packages up to 70 lbs.
- Ground: 3-8 average postal days for packages up to 70 lbs.
DHL International Shipping Services and Delivery Times
DHL International services are considered efficient means for delivering goods around the globe. Here are the key details regarding available services:
- DHL Parcel International Direct offers international shipping services to 37 eCommerce markets. Key features include excellent customer experience, high visibility, speed, and a duty and tax management option. The max weight limit for Canada shipments is 66 lbs., and for the rest of the world, it is 44 lbs.
- DHL Parcel International Standard: With it, you can ensure international shipping to 220+ countries. Main services include end-to-end tracking, simplified postal customs clearance, and reliable transit. The maximum weight capacity for Canada is 66 lbs., and for the rest of the world, it is 44 lbs.
- DHL Packet International: Here, we have another ideal international shipping service for businesses that deal in lightweight packages. It’s not only cost-effective but also offers access to over 220 countries and territories. The maximum weight limit is 4.4 lbs.
DHL International Shipping Options Transit Times
- DHL Parcel International Direct 3 – 10 business days
- DHL Parcel International Standard Europe and Canada: 4 – 8 business days
- Rest of the World: 8 – 14 business days
- DHL Packet International 4 – 8 business days (arrival in destination country)
DHL Delivery Hours
DHL delivery hours vary by the chosen service and the destination location. As mentioned earlier, holidays, weekends, and other factors can also influence operating hours. However, the general timing for this carrier is 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday in the US. For international shipping, DHL Express Service locations remain open from 9 AM to 6 PM, and delivery hours are 8 AM to 6 PM from Monday through Friday.
Does DHL Deliver on Weekends?
In general, DHL does not operate on weekends or holidays in the United States. However, with additional fees and special arrangements, exceptions can sometimes be made. In contrast, DHL provides weekend services in many non-US countries, particularly in Europe. Standard deliveries are typically available from Monday to Saturday, while weekend services are limited to Sundays.
Get the Best DHL Shipping Rate with NextSmartShip
If you are interested in working with DHL and want to obtain the best shipping rates, NextSmartShip can be of help. This reliable 3PL service offers comprehensive order fulfillment services with inventory management, order tracking, and diverse shipping networks.
Moreover, it has close connections with renowned shipping carriers like DHL. With it, you can expect to get the best DHL shipping prices. That’s not all; its customer service is also worth mentioning. You get answers to your queries in no time. So, connect with them now and offer your customers a hassle-free shipping experience.
Conclusion
DHL stands out as a reliable courier company offering extensive domestic and international shipping services across 220+ countries. Whether you need fast delivery through DHL Express or cost-effective solutions like DHL eCommerce, their diverse service options cater to various shipping needs.
While delivery times are influenced by factors such as shipping costs, customs clearance, and holidays, a proper understanding of these elements can help you plan more effectively. If you’re looking to streamline your logistics and secure competitive rates, partnering with a 3PL provider like NextSmartShip can enhance your shipping process.
