DHL Express introduces AI-supported recognition of shipment contents
DHL Express is introducing an AI-powered solution for identifying shipment contents. Using modern computer vision technology, the photo of a shipping item is analyzed and automatically converted into a precise, customs-compliant description in seconds. This significantly simplifies one of the most complex steps in international shipping to date.
The solution is part of DHL Express’ ongoing efforts to make international shipping more accessible through practical, customer-centric innovations. Until now, the correct description of program content required in-depth expertise and careful formulation. By integrating AI directly into the booking process, this hurdle is eliminated: data quality increases, delays are reduced and shipping becomes easier and more reliable overall – regardless of the customer’s level of experience.
To use it, it is sufficient to take a photo of the item to be shipped with a smartphone or other device. The system analyzes the image on the server side, recognizes the item and creates a structured, customs-compliant description in accordance with international standards within a few seconds. The proposal is then displayed to the customer and can be adjusted or overwritten if necessary before the shipment is finalized. Registration with DHL Express is not required.
This solution marks an important milestone in the use of AI in logistics: For the first time, automated identification of shipment contents has been seamlessly integrated into a live, customer-oriented booking process in international express shipping – and on a large scale.
Dirk Olufs, EVP & Global CIO at DHL Express, explains: “Computer vision is now in use in several markets for our customers. The decisive added value is obvious: If shipment data is recorded correctly from the beginning, all further process steps benefit – from fewer queries to faster customs clearance.”
Enna Zarate, Senior Vice President Digital Customer Solutions at DHL Express, adds: “The description of shipment content is a central component of the customer journey. With this AI solution, we are responding directly to the feedback of our customers – and are the first company in our industry to set a new standard.”
In international express logistics, shippers have so far had to declare their shipment contents largely independently and without major support. Despite advances in digital customs tools, this step remained largely manual and heavily dependent on user knowledge. With the new solution, DHL Express is going one step further: For the first time, automated image recognition is being used for the item description directly in the booking process.
The feature is currently available in eight markets: Canada (CA), Germany (DE), Hong Kong (HK), Netherlands (NL), Singapore (SG), South Africa (ZA), Spain (ES), United Arab Emirates (UAE). A gradual global rollout is planned in the course of 2026.
