DHL launches regular Road Freight Service between Europe and the Middle East

This expansion of the company's service portfolio offers customers the chance to choose the most suitable mode of transport, air, ocean or road, depending on the time/cost restraints associated with each individual shipment.

"With this new option, it is really worthwhile for our customers with clients in Europe and/or the Middle East region to take another look at their shipment structure,"

said Thomas George, CEO DHL Freight.

"Using DHL's Road Freight Service between Europe and Middle East can lead to remarkable cost savings, shortened delivery times and an optimized supply chain." he added.

The improved DHL Freight's network means lower costs and easier processes than air freight, and shorter transit times compared to ocean freight and the systemized service offers a door-to-door delivery supported by online track and trace, providing full shipment visibility to each customer, all backed by DHL's stringent, certified Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) procedures, to ensure the highest levels of security.

Leveraging the company's extensive road network, as well as DHL's in-house, 24/7 customs clearance capabilities, the road freight service means businesses from a diverse range of market sectors such as pharmaceutical, electrical, engineering, consumer, construction, automotive and oil and gas, now have an unparalleled choice and economical, door-to-door service for shipments from over 38 countries in Europe to numerous destinations across the Middle East.

"We are committed to fulfilling customers' evolving requirements and we have experienced a growing demand for an extended road transport option, particularly from the Middle East region. By continually introducing new services, which are supported by investments in infrastructure, increased network coverage and technology, we broaden DHL's strategic footprint and service offering across the region," said George.

Already the preferred logistics service provider in the Middle East, DHL operates 16 major distribution centres', numerous local terminals and the most up-to-date truck fleet in the region. To guarantee short transit times, all European shipments are consolidated in 13 major gateways and forwarded to the Transit Center in Istanbul.

From there, the cargo is fed into the Middle East network. Each shipment is assigned a unique code and can be tracked online. In addition to customs clearance, DHL takes care of all administrative work, such letters of credit and all risk-insurance services. With access to the larger DHL network, DHL Freight customers can benefit from further synergies when it comes to courier services, warehousing solutions as well as air and ocean freight.