When your goods exceed the weight and size limits of standard parcels, traditional express services are no longer sufficient. This is where DHL Freight comes in – DHL’s division dedicated to road freight transport.
Specialising in pallet transport and the shipment of bulky parcels, this service offers a dense road network connecting over 50 countries in Europe and beyond. With LetMeShip, you can access the power of this network without any administrative hassle, allowing you to send a parcel via DHL (even if it weighs 500 kg) with the same ease as a simple letter.
Why choose DHL Freight for your heavy freight shipments?
Freight transport (LTL/FTL) requires specialist expertise. Choosing DHL Freight via our platform guarantees you:
- Full European coverage: strategically located logistics hubs to optimise road transport flows.
- Security and traceability: unlike many local road hauliers, DHL offers end-to-end tracking.
Who is DHL Shipping Suitable For?
- Businesses with urgent delivery needs can leverage DHL’s fast and reliable express services.
- Companies with international business operations can benefit from DHL’s extensive range of international shipping services.
- DHL also offers specialized shipping solutions for businesses with specific requirements, such as shipping bulky goods.
Available DHL Freight services: Euroconnect vs Eurapid
To send a parcel via DHL using the road network, it is important to distinguish between the two main service levels tailored to B2B needs:
1. DHL Freight Euroconnect (Standard)
This is the ultimate “groupage” solution. It allows you to consolidate your shipments (pallets or heavy parcels) with those of other companies to reduce costs.
- Ideal for: non-urgent shipments, stock replenishment, cost optimisation.
- Delivery time: defined but not guaranteed (generally 2 to 5 days in Europe).
2. DHL Freight Eurapid (Premium)
Vous avez besoin de la fiabilité de l’express mais pour des charges lourdes ? Eurapid offre un traitement prioritaire sur le réseau routier.
- Idéal pour : les expéditions urgentes, les chaînes de production, les livraisons à jour fixe.
- Délai : prioritaire avec date de livraison déterminée.
Comparison table: Which Freight service should you choose?
| Feature | Euroconnect (Standard) | Eurapid (Premium) |
| Type of transport | Road (Groupage) | Priority Road |
| Speed | Standard economy | Fast / Specific day |
| Max. weight | Up to 2,500 kg | Up to 2,500 kg |
| Priority | Standard handling | Priority loading |
| Usage | Use Stock, DHL bulky parcel delivery | Industrial emergencies |
How do I send a bulky parcel or a pallet with DHL Freight?
The procedure differs slightly from the express service. Here’s how to do it on LetMeShip:
- Prepare your packaging: for freight, the goods must be properly palletised (wrapped in film and strapped) to withstand road transport.
- Enter the exact dimensions: on our comparison tool, enter the pallet’s dimensions (L x W x H) and the total weight. This is crucial for calculating the rate.
- Select “Freight”: our system will identify this as a DHL bulky parcel shipment and will show you the corresponding DHL Freight rates.
- Collection by lorry: a lorry (often with a tail lift, to be specified) will come to collect the goods.
Expert tip: unlike air express, DHL Freight delivery times are expressed in road working days. Plan your shipments in advance to benefit from the best rates.
“With your platform, you have created a tool that is both a real help for every user and allows corporations to efficiently manage shipping.“
Birgit Susdorf | Head of Foreign Trade and Shipping at Steuler Holding GmbH
Hi, I’m Eike 👋
I’m in the LetMeShip Sales team and ready to get the best rates and shipping options for you.
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FAQ
Questions about sending freight with DHL
What is the difference between DHL Express and DHL Freight?
This is the most important distinction. DHL Express uses the air network for small, urgent parcels (usually < 70 kg). DHL Freight uses the road network (lorries) for bulky parcels, pallets and heavy goods (> 30 kg).
Can I send bulk parcels with DHL Freight?
No, to ensure safety and ease of handling in lorries, goods sent via DHL Freight must generally be palletised or packed in such a way that they can be handled using a pallet truck (wooden crates, etc.).
How do I track a DHL Freight shipment?
Just like with express deliveries, you can track your freight shipment. On LetMeShip, the DHL Freight tracking number (which often differs from the Express format) is integrated into your dashboard, allowing you to view key stages (collection, arrival at the terminal, delivery).
What are the delivery times for an international DHL road shipment?
Delivery times depend on the distance. For example, an international DHL shipment from Paris to Berlin via Freight can take 48 to 72 hours, whilst a shipment to Eastern Europe can take 4 to 5 days. The LetMeShip comparison tool will give you an accurate estimate before you place your order.
L’option hayon est-elle disponible ?
Yes, this is essential if you don’t have a loading bay. When booking to send a parcel via DHL in freight mode, make sure to check whether the “tailgate delivery/collection” option is required, as standard lorries are sometimes not equipped with one.