Starting October 1, 2026, DHL Express will introduce a demand surcharge for international shipments, ending on February 5, 2027. For Express shipments originating from China/Hong Kong, the surcharge will be $2.10 per kilogram for shipments to Europe, $2.25 per kilogram for shipments to the Americas, and only $0.11 per kilogram for shipments to Asia. This surcharge will be added in addition to the fuel surcharge.
Add how much: Originating from China/Hong Kong
Below are the rates for shipments originating from China/Hong Kong published on DHL's official website, applicable to DHL Express Worldwide, Express 12:00, 10:30, 9:00, Express Envelope and other Time Definite services.
| destination | US dollars/kg | USD/lb |
|---|---|---|
| China/Hong Kong, Asia | 0.11 | 0.05 |
| Oceania | 0.55 | 0.25 |
| Europe | 2.10 | 0.96 |
| America | 2.25 | 1.03 |
| Middle East/North Africa | 1.70 | 0.78 |
| Other regions | 0.91 | 0.42 |
For DHL Economy Select Day Definite services, a flat rate of $0.07 per pound (approximately $0.15 per kilogram) applies, regardless of the destination.
How much more does a single shipment cost?
A shipment of 10 kg to the US incurs a demand surcharge of $22.50 (10 x 2.25 = $22.50), approximately 160 RMB. The DHL website states that this surcharge is subject to fuel surcharge, so the actual charge will be slightly higher. The monthly fuel surcharge rate is [not specified]. Fuel Surcharge Found on the page.
The chargeable weight is the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight. The volumetric weight formula is length × width × height (cm) ÷ 5000. Lightweight and bulky goods are at a greater disadvantage: a cardboard box measuring 60×50×40 cm and weighing 8 kg has a volumetric weight of 24 kg, and the surcharge is calculated based on 24 kg.
Not just DHL
FedEx has already raised prices since September 21st. According to data released by FedEx, the demand surcharge for shipments originating from China/Hong Kong/Macau into the United States has increased: Economy from $0.25 to $0.54 per pound, and Priority from $0.35 to $0.91 per pound; for shipments into Europe, the surcharge has increased from €1.00 to €1.52 per kilogram, valid until February 7, 2027. Combined, these increases mean that express delivery costs to Europe and the United States will be higher than usual from Q4 until the Chinese New Year.
What to do before shipping?
- Check the quote: Confirm that the price you received includes any additional charges for specific requirements. Don't wait until the bill comes out to find out.
- During peak season, try to compress packaging and reduce volume for goods, as bulky goods will be most affected.
- For goods that are not in a rush to be delivered, you can compare with Economy services, which have an additional fee of only about $0.15 per kilogram.
- Calculate the budget in advance: For shipments from October to early February of the following year, the costs should be estimated according to the new rates.
To find out the exact price of your shipment, you can directly... Check shipping costsOther additional fees are Additional Fee Inquiry Look inside.
