DHL and Boston Dynamics sign MOU to deploy 1.000 robots and boost automation

 

The logistics giant DHL Group has announced the signing of a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Boston Dynamics, a world leader in advanced robotics, marking a significant step in intensifying its global automation strategy.

 

Building on the proven success of the robot Stretch by Boston DynamicsInitially implemented by DHL for automated container unloading, this agreement paves the way for the incorporation of more than 1.000 additional robotic units across DHL's various divisions. The company plans to expand the applications of these robots, exploring new use cases such as box picking, one of the most labor-intensive activities within its contract logistics division. DHL Supply Chain.

 

This collaboration, which began in 2018, has demonstrated tangible improvements in logistics automation. DHL Supply Chain led the commercial introduction of the Stretch robot in North America in 2023, recently extending its deployment to UK and EuropeThe results to date have been remarkable, achieving unloading rates of up to 700 boxes per hour and contributing to greater employee satisfaction by reducing the physical load in demanding environments.

 

 

With strategic partnerships, DHL is intensifying its commitment to go beyond traditional supplier relationships and focusing even more on co-developing, testing, and scaling robotic solutions with leading innovators.

 

 

Sally Miller, Global CIO of DHL Supply Chain, highlighted the company's commitment to automation through its Accelerated Digitization“With this expanded partnership with Boston Dynamics, DHL will take a more active role in designing and leading robotic development alongside key partners, focusing on creating more resilient, responsive, and intelligent solutions that address our company’s specific challenges. Together, we are setting new standards for the logistics industry.”

 

Over the past three years, DHL Group has invested more than €1.000 billion in automating its contract logistics division. Currently, its global network includes more than 7.500 robots, 200.000 smart handheld devices, and nearly 800.000 IoT sensors, optimizing operations and improving working conditions. More than 90% of DHL warehouses worldwide already incorporate some form of automation or digitalization.

 

DHL's strategic approach focuses on co-developing solutions with both new and existing robotics partners, seeking to go beyond traditional supplier relationships. This collaboration model with Boston Dynamics exemplifies this strategy, allowing DHL to provide real-world operating environments for testing and crucial feedback, while Boston Dynamics develops technologies tailored to the needs of the logistics industry.

 

Robert PlayerThe CEO of Boston Dynamics expressed his enthusiasm for the continued collaboration: “Our teams have come a long way together in innovation to create a practical and efficient warehouse robotics solution, and this is the next natural step in what has been an excellent relationship. Stretch is ideally designed to be the first multi-purpose case-picking robot that can meet DHL’s diverse needs.”

 

As part of its 2030 Strategy, DHL Group seeks to further formalize its technology partnerships, driving not only large-scale deployment but also joint development and co-investment, consolidating robotics and automation as key pillars of its long-term, sustainable growth.