To support New Zealand businesses as they gear up to send their products to customers around the globe, DHL Express says it will operate with ‘no Christmas cut-off’, collecting shipments and running deliveries right up until December 24, unlike other carriers with designated Christmas cut-offs. Last year, the number of shipments on December 19 was 26% higher than average, demonstrating the critical need for continuous service during the peak season, the company says
DHL Express New Zealand operations vice president Dinesh Dasanayake says the logistics giant is proud to help New Zealand businesses connect with international markets.
“At DHL Express, we understand the importance of timely and reliable delivery, especially during the peak season. With volumes expected to increase over the next two months, our dedicated team is here to help Kiwi exporters navigate the complexities of international shipping, ensuring their products arrive safely and on time,” Dasanayake says.
In addition to no Christmas cut-off, DHL Express owns two dedicated aircraft that fly between Auckland, Christchurch, Melbourne and Sydney, strengthening the trans-Tasman express delivery capabilities.
“This allows our DHL network to maintain consistent service levels and avoid disruptions that can impact other courier and freight companies.
“We offer unmatched express services across the globe, delivering from New Zealand to 78 countries by 12pm and to 28 countries by 9am. DHL Express can also reach Australia, Singapore, United States, and Canada overnight from New Zealand. These services provide Kiwi exporters with the speed and reliability needed to thrive in international markets,” Dasanayake says.
In a significant investment to boost capacity, DHL is investing over 100 million euros (around NZ$180m) in eight new Boeing 777 freight aircraft on trans-Pacific and intercontinental routes between Asia and Europe. The investment will also help lower transport emissions with newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft.
The 2024 ExportNZ DHL Export Barometer highlighted that more than half (56%) of New Zealand exporters think sustainability is very important or important to their logistics and supply chain.
“By using an ‘insetting’ approach through the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), DHL Express ensures that New Zealand exporters can lower their carbon footprint while still benefiting from efficient and reliable delivery, therefore supporting their growth and success during the busy festive season,” Dasanayake says.