DHL Express shipment growth lifts Q2 revenue 21.5%

DHL Express saw transported shipment weight return to growth in the second quarter of 2026, helping drive a 21.5% rise in revenue to €7.13 billion. DHL Global Forwarding also reported a 17.9% increase in revenue to €5.45 billion, supported by higher air and ocean freight volumes, according to DHL data.

The numbers come as cargo flows continue to change across international markets. DHL said companies are adapting their supply chains and putting greater focus on flexibility and reliability as trade patterns shift.

For the Middle East, where major logistics hubs link Asia, Europe and Africa, higher freight volumes could support demand across forwarding, cargo handling and warehousing. The shift in trade flows also increases the need for logistics operators to adjust capacity and connections as demand changes.

International air freight capacity remained an important factor in the quarter. DHL said capacity constraints in the market had a positive earnings impact of around €150 million for Express.

DHL Group's overall revenue rose 13% to €22.4 billion, while operating profit increased 30% to €1.9 billion. The group has also raised its 2026 operating profit forecast to more than €6.5 billion.The company is also increasing investment in automation and digital systems. Capital spending reached €1.3 billion in the first half, with investments including automated warehousing and sorting systems and digital applications. For the logistics sector, this points to a stronger push towards technology as cargo volumes grow and supply chains become more complex.