DHL vs FedEx: Domestic and International Comparisons(2024)

Stuck between DHL and FedEx for your online business shipping? We know how vital choosing the right carriers could be in the matter of dollars and cents to your bottom line and customer satisfaction.

In this ultimate DHL vs. FedEx comparison guide, we will break down everything you need to know to help you make the best choice for your business.

From pricing to delivery time, international reach to track, we've got your back—whether it's local and global shipping fragile handling, or oversized parcels!

DHL vs FedEx: Ultimate comparison

What is DHL?

DHL is an international logistics company that majorly deals with shipping, courier services, and transportation. The Company was formed in San Francisco on 25th September 1969 by Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom, and Robert Lynn. Later on, it grew into one of the largest international logistic companies headquartered in Bonn, Germany. DHL is a subsidiary of Deutsche Post DHL Group, regarded as the world's premier mail and logistics group.

What is FedEx?

FedEx is a globally recognized shipping and logistics company that provides a wide array of transportation, eCommerce, and business services. Founded in 1971, it gradually became one of the largest shipping and logistic companies worldwide, known for the fastest and most trusted delivery services around the globe.

Domestic Shipping

There are several key points to consider when comparing DHL with FedEx. As shown in, the table below summarizes the principal differences between the US domestic services of these two carriers:

FedEx has the edge in the US domestic market, offering more competitive pricing, faster delivery times, and a wider range of services.

Global Logistics

DHL and FedEx are both major players in international shipping, but they have distinct strengths and weaknesses:

DHL generally outperforms FedEx in international shipping, offering faster delivery times and more cost-effective options.

Conclusion

• For International Shipping: DHL is generally more cost-effective and faster, especially for urgent international deliveries. It also offers extensive global coverage and specialized services for various sectors.
• For Domestic Shipping: FedEx is typically faster and more reliable within the United States, with a strong domestic network and comprehensive tracking services.

Industry-Specific Logistics

DHL and FedEx use specialized logistics to transcend industries. The following table compares the industry-specific offerings of DHL and FedEx:

Sustainability Initiatives

DHL and FedEx have made huge strides in terms of environmental sustainability. Their commitment to reducing their carbon footprint has materialized in several programs, and they take various other initiatives to engage in green practices. Major sustainability activities are summarized in the table below:

Hazmat Logistics

If you're looking to compare DHL and FedEx for handling hazardous materials, you'll find that both carriers offer services, but with some notable differences in their capabilities and restrictions:

FedEx usually has more complete dangerous goods shipping options, especially in the United States, because of its large domestic network and special services.

API Integration

With AfterShip Tracking, You can make the most of our global network of carriers, postal services, and last-mile delivery carriers. Our gigantic network ensures that you've got over 1,000 carriers at your side across the world, so your packages are going to get where they need to—on time, every time. Not only does this make shipping more efficient for you, but it also helps you reach more customers and grow your business around the world.

Designed for easy engineering, AfterShip provides the most robust multi-carrier tracking APIs and webhooks. We've got you covered, whether you need a DHL API or a FedEx API. These tools save you valuable time on shipment tracking integrations, so you can focus on what matters most—growing your business.

DHL vs FedEx: Pros and Cons

Both carriers offer robust services, but each has its strengths and weaknesses:

DHL

Pros:

• Global presence: DHL is the most prominent international shipment company since it covers activities of more than 220 countries in the world.
• Speed: This goes without saying since this is a dimension where it has an exceptional performance, especially on their fastest delivery option, in the case of international shipments, such as Express 9:00 and Express 12:00.
• Customer Service: High customer satisfaction with a 97% rating, praised for timely delivery and efficient tracking.
• No Pickup Fees: Convenient for customers as there are no additional fees for package pickup.
• Comprehensive services: They provide air and ocean freight delivery, door-to-door services, and specialized services for sectors like eCommerce and medical shipments.

Cons:

• Cost: Generally more expensive than some competitors, particularly for international deliveries.
• Limited U.S. presence: Less extensive domestic network in the United States compared to FedEx.
• Tracking issues: Some customers report challenges in obtaining tracking information.
• Extra charges: Occasional surcharges may apply, adding to the overall cost.

FedEx

Pros:

• Reliability: Known for its reliable service with a high on-time delivery rate of 96% for domestic and 94% for international shipments.
• Speed: Offers faster average delivery times, especially domestically, with options like FedEx International Priority and same-day services.
• Comprehensive tracking: Provides detailed and effective tracking information, making it easier for customers to monitor shipments.
• Domestic strength: Strong presence in the U.S. with extensive domestic shipping options and regular weekend deliveries without extra surcharges.
• Insurance and discounts: Offers reliable insurance coverage and discounts for frequent shippers, making it economical for regular users.

Cons:

• Cost: Can be expensive, with complex pricing structures and various fees that may add up.
• Limited free packaging: Fewer free packaging options compared to some competitors, potentially increasing costs.
• Customer service: Customers’ satisfaction with customer service was divergent some customers complained that the company was inconveniencing them in resolving delivery problems.

Below is presented the table view of all the important pros and cons of DHL and FedEx, underlining their strong and weak points over different service features:

DHL vs FedEx: Which one is the best choice for my eCommerce business?

If you want to make the final decision, that will depend on what a customer's particular business needs are. DHL is an excellent choice for international shipping based on its large global network and quick period of delivery. This will be ideal for an eCommerce business that has a huge overseas customer base. FedEx supplies very comprehensive services within the domestic circle and guarantees time of delivery within the United States, which may play in your favor in case your largest market is local.

Service reliability and tracking

Both carriers are known for their reliability and efficient tracking systems. DHL gets high marks for keeping customers in the loop with comprehensive updates on international shipments. FedEx also offers detailed tracking for both domestic and international deliveries. Implementing AfterShip Tracking will take your shipping process a notch higher. AfterShip goes well with both DHL and FedEx, so you can track all your shipments in one place. This centralization will save time and improve the customer experience with real-time updates, regardless of the carrier.

Customer support and additional services

Customer support and extra services are also important factors in the decision-making process. DHL gets great reviews and has services for sectors like e-commerce and medical shipments. FedEx offers some advantages such as availability in the United States, dependable service, and weekend home delivery at no additional charges.

Conclusion

Whatever carrier you choose, integrating AfterShip Tracking will streamline your operations and enhance your customer service by providing a unique tracking experience.

FAQs

Why is DHL much faster and more reliable than FedEx?

DHL boasts a 99% on-time delivery rate for domestic shipments and 97% for international shipments, slightly higher than FedEx's 96% for domestic and 94% for international deliveries.

DHL handles most of its freight internally, using its infrastructure and employees. This reduces the likelihood of errors and delays that can occur when outsourcing parts of the shipping process

How can I get more information to choose the best carrier for my needs?

If you’d like to know more, just get in touch with our specialist.

Want no shipment tracking complexities to hold you back in any way? Start using AfterShip Tracking to boost customer satisfaction and supercharge your efficiency!