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DHL Parcel UK

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ShipEngine Content Team

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DHL Parcel UK, part of the DHL Group, makes it easy to book collections from your Ship From location or drop off your shipments at your local ServicePoint.

Interested in using DHL Parcel UK with ShipStation API? Sign up for a DHL Parcel UK account to get started.

DHL eCommerce UK Integration Requirements

Connection Requirements:

  • An active account with DHL eCommerce UK

  • Your DHL eCommerce UK Client ID and Client Secret

  • OPTIONAL: Your DHL eCommerce UK Pickup Account (UK Domestic and Channel Islands Shipping, International Air Shipping, or International Road Shipping)

Connect DHL Parcel UK to ShipEngine

To connect your DHL Parcel UK account in the ShipEngine dashboard:

  1. Select Carriers under the Set-up section.

    Dashboard. Carriers section selected under ShipEngine Setup

  2. Click Connect my accounts under the My Carrier Accounts section.

    Carriers Setup screen with Connect My Own Accounts button shown

  3. Select your Ship From country for this carrier.

    Country selector shown in Connect Carrier Account popup

  4. Select the DHL Parcel UK tile from the Available Carriers pop-up window.

    DHLParcelUK_tile.png

  5. Enter your DHL Parcel UK Client ID, Client Secret, and (optional) Customer Account Number into the corresponding fields.

  6. Click the Connect button.

Optional Pickup Account Connection Fields

There are several optional fields in the DHL Parcel UK connection window based on the type of Pickup Account you have: Domestic and Channel Islands Shipping, International Air Shipping, or International Road Shipping.

If you would like to add your Pickup Account with your DHL Parcel UK connection, enter the following information into the corresponding fields for your Pickup Account type:

  • Pickup Account ID

  • Enable 'Book an AdHoc Collection' checkbox (You must also enter your Customer Account Number to book an adhoc collection)

  • Trading Location ID

  • Collection Start Time

  • Collection End Time

  • Customs Invoice Type (International Road Shipping only)

Available Features for DHL eCommerce UK

The ShipStation API integration with DHL eCommerce UK supports the following standard features:

Key: Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes. = Supported; Red X mark. Unsupported feature. No. = Not Supported; Grey dash icon. Not applicable. = Does Not Apply

Feature

Supported?

Domestic Shipping

Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes.

International Shipping

ICON_greencheck.png

Electronic Customs Submission

Red X mark. Unsupported feature. No.

Return Labels

Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes.

Estimated Rates

Red X mark. Unsupported feature. No.

Carrier Insurance

Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes.

Tracking

Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes.

End of Day (Electronic)

Grey dash icon. Not applicable.

End of Day (PDF)

Grey dash icon. Not applicable.

Label Branding

Red X mark. Unsupported feature. No.

Label Messages

Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes.

Multi-package Shipping

Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes.

Multiple Accounts

Green checkmark. Supported feature. Yes.

Available Services & Package Types

DHL eCommerce UK Domestic Services

  • Bagit Next Day

  • Bagit Next Day 09:00

  • Bagit Next Day 10:30

  • Bagit Next Day 12:00

  • Bagit Next Day - ServicePoint Delivery

  • Bagit Saturday 09:00

  • Bagit Saturday 10:30 (Specified Address / Leave Safe)

  • Bagit Saturday 10:30 (Specified Address / Neighbour)

  • Bagit Saturday 10:30

  • Bagit Saturday (Specified Address / Leave Safe)

  • Bagit Saturday (Specified Address / Neighbour)

  • Bagit Saturday

  • Pallet 48 Hours

  • Pallet Next Day

  • Parcel 48 Hours (Specified Address / Neighbour)

  • Parcel 48 Hours - ServicePoint Delivery

  • Parcel 72 Hours (Specified Address / Leave Safe)

  • Parcel 72 Hours - ServicePoint Delivery

  • Parcel Next Day

  • Parcel Next Day 09:00

  • Parcel Next Day 10:30

  • Parcel Next Day 12:00

  • Parcel Next Day - ServicePoint Delivery

  • Parcel Saturday 09:00

  • Parcel Saturday 10:30 (Specified Address / Leave Safe)

  • Parcel Saturday 10:30 (Specified Address / Neighbour)

  • Parcel Saturday 10:30

  • Parcel Saturday (Specified Address / Leave Safe)

  • Parcel Saturday (Specified Address / Neighbour)

  • Parcel Saturday

  • Parcel Shop Returns / Unlinked Returns

DHL eCommerce UK International Services

  • DHL Parcel Connect

  • International Road Economy

  • Parcel 48 Hours (Specified Address / Neighbour) - Channel Islands

  • Parcel 48 Hours - ServicePoint Delivery to Channel Islands

  • Worldwide Air

DHL eCommerce UK Package Types

  • Package

  • Pallet

The carrier can be used to create domestic shipping labels.

The carrier can be used to create international shipping labels.

ShipStation API will submit international customs declarations electronically to the carrier.

The carrier can be used to create domestic return labels.

When an API call is made to the Rates endpoint, ShipEngine will return estimated shipping rates for the carrier based on the connected account information and shipment details.

Shipment insurance, provided by the shipment's selected carrier, can be added to the shipment in ShipStation API. This insurance would be in addition to any default coverage already provided by that carrier.

Shipping labels created for this carrier will include a tracking number that can be used to view the shipment status on the carrier's tracking website. Tracking may not be available for all shipping services.

Shipment manifests and End of Day documents are submitted electronically to the carrier by ShipEngine.

Shipment manifests and End of Day documents are generated as PDF files that can be printed along with shipping labels. Because these documents are not electronically submitted, physical copies must be provided to the carrier.

ShipEngine can print your brand logo on shipping labels from carriers that support this feature. Add your logo in the ShipEngine Dashboard.

ShipEngine can include additional information on a shipping label that is specified in the label request, if supported by the carrier.

This carrier can be used to create multi-package shipments, where multiple labels are created for a single shipment and the individual packages are linked together in a single shipment record with a master tracking number.

You can connect this carrier to ShipStation API multiple times using different accounts and choose which account will be used to create each shipment.

Optimizing Customs Data for International Shipments to Prevent Delays

To ensure smooth customs clearance and minimize the risk of shipment inspections or delays, it is critical to provide high-quality data for every international shipment. Poor data quality, specifically vague descriptions and missing HS codes, often triggers manual reviews by destination authorities.

Key Takeaways for Merchants

  • Be Literal: Describe the item as if you are explaining it to someone who cannot see it.

  • Include Part Numbers: If your product has a Part Number (PAN), include it in the reference field to help customs verify the item.

  • The "Rule of Three": A great description usually answers What it is, What it's made of, and What it's for.

Write Accurate Line Item Descriptions

Customs authorities need to know exactly what is being imported, what it is made of, and its intended use. Avoid using internal marketing descriptions or vague terms.

  • Avoid Stop Words: Words like "Sample," "Variety," or "Gift" are frequently flagged and may trigger an automatic inspection. For a List of Common Stop Words, see the PDF attachment at the end of this article.

  • Include Material Composition: For items like footwear or apparel, specify the materials (e.g., "Men’s jeans, 80% cotton, 20% polyester" instead of just "Jeans").

  • Detail the Product Type: Instead of "VINTAGE FOOTWEAR," use "Women’s shoes - leather upper and rubber sole."

  • Be Specific: Instead of "Wheel adjusted," use "Bicycle rear pivot part."

Utilizing Harmonized System (HS) Codes

Providing a correct HS code (or Commodity Code) is the most effective way to help customs officials categorize your goods.

  • 🇺🇸 US-Based Shippers: Use the US Census Bureau’s Schedule B Search Engine to find the correct code.

  • Global Shippers: Ensure you are using the most current codes required by the destination country to avoid incorrect duty/tax calculations.

Provide Part and Reference Numbers

When possible, include the specific part or item number in your commercial invoice data. Mapping these to the correct reference fields in your shipping tool (e.g., the "PAN" reference type) provides an extra layer of clarity for clearance agents and helps verify the item against the provided description.

Prohibited Stop Words & Description Comparison

Using vague language is the fastest way to get a shipment flagged for inspection. Below are examples of poor descriptions found in recent audit data versus the clear, detailed descriptions required by customs authorities. For a List of Common Stop Words, see the PDF attachment at the end of this article.

Poor Description (Vague)

Better Description (Detailed)

Why it Matters

VINTAGE FOOTWEAR

Women's shoes: leather upper, rubber sole

Defines gender, material, and sole type.

JEANS

Men’s jeans: 80% cotton, 20% polyester

Specifies material composition for textiles.

SAMPLE / VARIETY

Stainless steel kitchen whisk (K792)

Stop Words like "Sample" or "Variety" trigger automatic flags.

HAIR PRODUCT

Organic argan oil hair serum (100ml)

Identifies the specific substance and volume.

The Mesa - Medium

Canvas messenger bag with brass buckles

Moves past marketing names to actual physical traits.

Merchant Checklist: International Shipping Compliance

To ensure your international shipments clear customs without delay, use this checklist to review your data before printing your labels.

  • [ ] Is the description specific? (e.g., "Men's 100% cotton t-shirt" instead of "Apparel")

  • [ ] Did you avoid Stop Words? (Ensure "Sample," "Gift," and "Variety" are not used)

  • [ ] Is the material composition listed? (e.g., "Stainless steel," "Leather," "Plastic")

  • [ ] Is the HS code/Commodity code included? (Use a search tool if you aren't 100% sure)

  • [ ] Is the Part Number (PAN) mapped correctly? (Helps verify the item in the clearance system)

  • [ ] Is the unit value and currency accurate? (Ensure values match your commercial invoice)

Description Logic: The "Physical" Rule

When writing descriptions, ignore your marketing names. Customs authorities don't know what a Polaris IGX 144+ Linkage Kit is. Instead, describe the physical object: Steel mechanical linkage parts for vehicle suspension.

Technical Note: Mapping Compliance Data

When integrating with international carriers, how you map data fields in your API payload directly impacts customs clearance rates. While the UI may show a single "Description" field, the backend mapping should prioritize the following:

  1. Reference Field Mapping (PAN)

    To assist customs authorities in verifying shipments against digital records, ensure that product part numbers are mapped to the correct reference type.

    • Reference Type: PAN (Part Number)

    • Usage: Map your internal SKU or manufacturer part number here. This allows clearance systems to match the physical item to the digital declaration more efficiently.

  2. Data Integrity vs. UX Display

    It is important to note that what the customer sees in the ShipStation or Shopify UI may not always reflect the full data payload sent to the carrier.

    • Payload Enrichment: Even if a merchant uses a short marketing title in their store, the integration should attempt to send the most granular description available in the product database to the description field in the customs object.

    • Stop Word Scrubbing: Consider implementing a validation layer that flags or prevents the use of Stop Words (Sample, Gift, Variety) in the description field before the API call is finalized.

  3. HS Code Automation

    Automating the harmonized_tariff_code field is the highest-value optimization you can provide. Ensuring this field is populated with a 6 to 10-digit code reduces the reliance on the text description alone, as the code provides a universal language for customs agents worldwide.

DHL eCommerce UK - Shipping to Northern Ireland (Windsor Framework)

In alignment with the Windsor Framework, DHL eCommerce UK introduced data requirements when shipping from the UK to Northern Ireland (NI). The additional data is mandatory as of 1st May 2025. If this data is not provided, the label will not be generated.

When shipping from the UK to Northern Ireland, DHL eCommerce UK needs one of the following Movement indicators: C2C, C2B, B2C, or B2B (Shipping Options). If one is not provided, B2C will be sent to the carrier as the default value.

Movement Indicator Requirements

This table shows DHL eCommerce UK's required data for each Movement indicator type:

Movement Indicator

Requirements

C2C Shipments

For C2C shipments, each product must include:

  • Description

  • Value

C2B Shipments

For C2B shipments: 

  • Recipient EORI Number

  • Recipient UKIMS Number

For each product in a C2B shipment:

  • Description

  • Value

  • Quantity

  • HS Code

B2C Shipments

For B2C shipments:

  • Sender EORI Number

  • Sender UKIMS Number

For each product in a B2C Shipment:

  • Description

  • Unit Value

  • Quantity

  • HS Code

B2B Shipments

For B2B shipments, merchants need to declare whether a shipment is at risk or is not at risk of entering EU territory. Shipments 'not at risk' are eligible for green lane due to zero duty rate for UK origin shipment (Shipping Options)

See the Gov.UK Guidance page about Declaring goods you bring into Northern Ireland 'not at risk’.

  • For not at risk shipments to Northern Ireland DHL eCommerce UK requires:

    • Sender EORI Number

    • Sender UKIMS Number

    • Recipient EORI Number

    • Recipient UKIMS Number

    For each product in a not at risk shipment:

    • Description

    • Value

    • Quantity

    • HS Code

    • Weight

    • Country of Origin

  • For "at risk" shipments to Northern Ireland DHL eCommerce UK requires:

    • Deferment Account (set this in the DHL eCommerce UK carrier settings)

    • Reason for Export

    • Duties paid

    For each product in an "at risk" shipment:

    • Description

    • Value

    • Quantity

    • HS Code

    • Weight

    • Country of Origin

Starting 1 May 2025, if the required details are not provided for DHL eCommerce UK shipments from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, the label will not be generated.

DHL eCommerce UK Integration Notes

  • The ShipStation API integration with DHL eCommerce UK does not support third-party billing.

  • Label messages are supported for international DHL eCommerce UK services only.

  • DHL eCommerce UK supports the what3words protocol. Use the geolocation property in the ship_to object to include the "what3words" type and associated value.

The carrier can be used to create domestic shipping labels.

The carrier can be used to create international shipping labels.

ShipStation API will submit international customs declarations electronically to the carrier.

The carrier can be used to create domestic return labels.

When an API call is made to the Rates endpoint, ShipEngine will return estimated shipping rates for the carrier based on the connected account information and shipment details.

Shipment insurance, provided by the shipment's selected carrier, can be added to the shipment in ShipStation API. This insurance would be in addition to any default coverage already provided by that carrier.

Shipping labels created for this carrier will include a tracking number that can be used to view the shipment status on the carrier's tracking website. Tracking may not be available for all shipping services.

Shipment manifests and End of Day documents are submitted electronically to the carrier by ShipEngine.

Shipment manifests and End of Day documents are generated as PDF files that can be printed along with shipping labels. Because these documents are not electronically submitted, physical copies must be provided to the carrier.

ShipEngine can print your brand logo on shipping labels from carriers that support this feature. Add your logo in the ShipEngine Dashboard.

ShipEngine can include additional information on a shipping label that is specified in the label request, if supported by the carrier.

This carrier can be used to create multi-package shipments, where multiple labels are created for a single shipment and the individual packages are linked together in a single shipment record with a master tracking number.

You can connect this carrier to ShipStation API multiple times using different accounts and choose which account will be used to create each shipment.

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