DHL is one of the most recognised express delivery services from China. But the DHL brand covers several very different services — they vary significantly in speed, price, and tracking. Let's break it down.
DHL services from China
| Service | Time | Price | Tracking |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHL Express | 3–5 days | $30–80 | Detailed, every step |
| DHL eCommerce | 10–20 days | $5–15 | Key milestones |
| DHL Packet Plus | 7–14 days | $8–20 | Good |
| DHL Parcel International | 8–15 days | $10–25 | Good |
DHL Express is the 'real' DHL — delivery in 3–5 days, customs brokerage, and door-to-door courier. DHL eCommerce is a cheaper option that works through local partners and can take considerably longer.
DHL tracking
- DHL Express tracking number: 10 digits or JD + 18 digits
- Track on dhl.com or in the DHL app
- Updates every few hours (Express)
- DHL eCommerce: tracking passes to a local partner after arriving in-country
Tip: If the tracking number isn't found on dhl.com — check it on the DHL eCommerce site (ecommerce.dhl.com). They are separate systems.
Customs with DHL
DHL Express has its own customs broker — parcels clear customs quickly, usually in 1–2 days. If duty is required, DHL will notify you in advance and offer online payment.
- Customs duties are invoiced separately
- DHL may advance the duty and charge an advance payment fee
- To decline brokerage services — contact DHL in advance
DHL vs FedEx vs UPS from China
| Service | Time | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| DHL Express | 3–5 d. | Best coverage, especially in Europe |
| FedEx International Priority | 3–5 d. | Reliable for USA and Canada |
| UPS Worldwide Express | 3–5 d. | Good for commercial freight |
| TNT (FedEx) | 4–7 d. | More economical, good for Europe |
When to choose DHL
- You need guaranteed delivery in 3–5 days
- Item is valuable and insurance matters (DHL insures up to $100 free)
- You're shipping a commercial batch — DHL handles customs declarations better
- Delivery to remote regions — DHL covers 220+ countries
Note: DHL eCommerce is much cheaper than DHL Express but also much slower. Don't confuse them: if a seller offers 'DHL' for $5 — it's almost certainly DHL eCommerce, not Express.