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How to ship large items fast
Anna Thompson
Anna Thompson
Discover content team
3 min read
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Looking for a fast and reliable way to ship heavy packages arround the world? There's an alternative to freight forwarding services that might be a better fit for your business. Read on for a quick guide to the best way to ship large or heavy items.

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With around 90% of world trade moved by ocean1, there is immense pressure on freight forwarding services. In addition, global supply chains are buckling under the impact of COVID-related lockdowns, decimated fleet resources, trade restrictions and the war in Ukraine.

These frictions are being felt by businesses around the world. A DHL survey found that “capacity and pricing challenges with freight forwarders” is a leading concern for its customers – at a time when e-commerce volumes have never been greater.

Yet, amongst all this disruption, there is a more stable alternative to freight forwarding: Express shipping. Already millions of businesses call on the expertise of DHL Express to send light items and small consignments. But what many don't realize is that the same fixed price, time-definite international service can be used for heavier and larger shipments too.

DHL logo on a screen

What are the benefits of shipping heavy/large items with DHL Express? 

Stability: Since DHL Express relies solely on air and land rather than sea freight, it’s more resilient against some of the market disruptions currently impacting freight forwarding services, making it a safer option for businesses wishing to get their orders from A to B without any delays.

Speed: With DHL Express’ Time Definite shipping, you can be sure your shipments will get to where they need to be, on time and in one piece – whatever their size.

Cost: DHL offers a stable, transparent, all-in-one pricing structure which removes the uncertainty of additional costs further down the line – things like export documentation, airport handling and delivery, which can ramp up the price of traditional freight forwarding services considerably.

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Customs: DHL Express has extensive worldwide customs knowledge and experience. We know that a smooth and efficient customs clearance process helps your shipments arrive as quickly as possible. This service is included in your shipping price as standard.  

End-to-end visibility: You’ll be able to track your shipment and request notifications of its progress. Peace of mind for you and your customers.

Customer Service: Our Certified International Specialists have all the experience and expertise to find solutions to your shipping challenges, whatever they may be.

Of course, this does mean that, up front, there is a premium to pay for the service DHL Express provides. But when price stability is important, time is of the essence, and professional reputations are at stake, few would disagree that the benefits on offer make it a worthwhile investment. 

How to ship heavy items: weight and size limits

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For items that exceed these limits, special bookings may be required.

For further details on exact size and weight limits, pricing structures, and a guide to protecting your goods, download our packing guide.

How to ship a pallet

Heavy, bulky or palletised items need to be packed in a manner suitable for Express transportation. This packing guide has all the Dos and Don'ts of palletised shipping, so your goods get to where they need to be on time and without damage or delay. 

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Let's get things moving...

If you already have an account with DHL Express, click the button below for more information on how we can support you when you need to send heavier items.

If you don't currently ship with DHL Express, but are ready to enjoy the benefits, open an account with us by clicking the button below.

1 - The Effortless Economy: A New Age of RetailLinnworks, 2021 

2 - OECD.org, accessed June 2022