20 September 2026
DHL surge emergency charge
DHL Express remains committed to delivering exceptional service through our extensive global network. As we continue to adapt to the evolving landscape of political and economic challenges impacting global trade, we prioritise agility and resilience.
To maintain our service level during periods of peak demand, we will be activating a Demand Surcharge effective 1 October 2026 until 5 February 2027. This surcharge will apply to selected DHL Express International shipping services.
For customers using our Time Definite Domestic and Day Definite Domestic shipping services, we will be activating a separate Demand Surcharge effective 1 November 2026 until 31 December 2026.
Why is this surcharge being implemented?
The DHL Express network is built on a unique transportation model that combines dedicated DHL aircraft with commercial airline capacity, ensuring reliable service to over 220 countries and territories. However, during peak demand periods, shipment volumes can fluctuate significantly and exceed our network’s capacity base levels.
In recent years, global trade has experienced unprecedented volatility, making it increasingly unpredictable and challenging. The Demand Surcharge enables us to allocate additional resources and capacity where needed, helping with the navigation of these complexities and the delivery of the high-quality service you expect.
What is the mechanism of this surcharge?
In line with last year, the Demand Surcharge will apply per shipment in GBP per kg (billing weight) according to the origin and destination. Fuel surcharge applies.
Time Definite International (1)
| Origins | CN/HK | Asia | Oceania | EU | AM | MENA | RoW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN/HK | 0.10 | 0.10 | 0.50 | 1.60 | 1.80 | 1.30 | 0.70 |
| South Asia | 0.10 | 0.10 | 0.50 | 1.00 | 1.20 | 0.50 | 0.70 |
| Asia | 0.10 | 0.10 | 0.50 | 1.10 | 1.30 | 1.00 | 0.70 |
| EU | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.50 | 0.30 | 0.50 | 0.00 | 0.70 |
| AM | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.50 | 0.00 | 0.30 | 0.00 | 0.70 |
| MENA | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.50 | 1.00 | 1.20 | 0.10 | 0.70 |
| RoW | 0.70 | 0.70 | 0.70 | 0.70 | 0.70 | 0.70 | 0.70 |
DHL Express Worldwide, DHL Express 12:00, DHL Express 10:30, DHL Express 9:00, DHL Express Envelope, DHL Express Breakbulk including the respective Import and 3rd Country equivalents.
Time Definite Domestic and Day Definite Domestic
A flat 0.10 GBP per kg Demand Surcharge applies to all Time Definite Domestic and Day Definite Domestic shipping services.
DHL Express Domestic, DHL Express Domestic 9:00, DHL Express Domestic 10:30, DHL Express Domestic 12:00 as well as DHL Economy Select Domestic where available.
Day Definite International
A flat 0.15 GBP per kg Demand Surcharge applies to all Day Definite International shipping services.
DHL Economy Select and DHL Economy Breakbulk including the respective Import and 3rd Country equivalents.