DHL Freight Tracking
Couriers
DHL Freight moves pallets and heavier consignments across road and rail networks, with options for time-definite groupage and premium delivery windows. Tracking is handled through DHL ActiveTracing, which lets you search by several IDs (not just a single “tracking number”) and see terminal scans, transit legs, and delivery proof for B2B freight.
Ways to track DHL Freight
1) ActiveTracing (official)
- Open the DHL Freight ActiveTracing page.
- Choose the ID type you have (for example, DHL Order Code / Consignment ID, Package ID / DHL License Plate, or a Reference supplied by the shipper).
- Enter the ID (remove spaces or dashes if the form rejects them) and submit to view the latest events and delivery details.
Tip: Shippers often share more than one ID on the paperwork (CMR/consignment note, packing list, or booking email). If one value returns no result, try the alternative ID printed on the label.
2) Ship24 (multi-carrier view)
If a road leg connects with air or ocean, or if your shipment interacts with a partner carrier, a multi-carrier page can show those legs together. Paste any DHL Freight ID you have; if a partner reference exists, it will appear as well.
DHL Freight number formats (examples)
DHL Freight accepts several patterns. Here are common ones you’ll see on labels and CMR notes:
| ID Type | Pattern | Example | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHL Freight (alphanumeric with dashes) | 2–3 letters – 2–3 letters – 7 digits | ABC-DE-1234567 | Often printed near the barcode on the freight label |
| DHL Freight (numeric with dash) | 4 digits – 5 digits | 1234-12345 | Used on some road consignments |
| DHL Freight (numeric only) | 9 / 10 / 14 digits | 123456789 | May appear as “Consignment ID” or “Order Code” |
| Package ID / License Plate | Varies (often long alphanumeric) | LP1234567890123 | Carton/pallet-level ID for itemized scans |
What you’ll see in DHL Freight tracking
Related:
DHL Paket Tracking- Picked up / received at terminal: consignment accepted; linehaul planning begins.
- Departed origin terminal: loaded for the next hub or cross-border gateway.
- Arrived at terminal / hub scan: interim stop; linehaul or cross-dock ahead.
- Customs processing (cross-border): documents checked; duties/taxes may apply for non-EU imports.
- Out for delivery (B2B): local vehicle en route to the consignee’s dock.
- Delivered: offloaded and signed; electronic proof of delivery (ePOD) is typically available.
Premium option: DHL FREIGHT EURAPID
EURAPID is a priority groupage service with committed lead times and optional early-day delivery windows (Pre-10 / Pre-12 on eligible postcodes). You also get fast information on delivery (IOD) and an ePOD shortly after hand-off. Availability depends on origin/destination coverage; check postcode eligibility before booking.
How to ship so tracking stays accurate
- Use clear pallet labels: apply one label per pallet face that stays visible after stretch-wrap.
- Match IDs on documents: make sure the Order Code on the CMR, packing list, and invoice matches the label.
- Add contact details: a receiving dock phone/contact speeds up exception handling and re-delivery.
- Volumetric data: enter correct dimensions and weight so the right network and cut-offs are applied.
Troubleshooting
- ID not recognized: try the alternative ID (Order Code vs Package ID), remove spaces/dashes, or switch the ActiveTracing input field to the correct ID type. Some references require a minimum length and numeric characters.
- Gaps between events: long road legs and hub transfers may not scan at every stop; the next hub scan will appear when processed.
- Multi-stop deliveries: groupage can consolidate with other freight; your status will jump from hub arrival to next outbound leg without an intermediate scan.
- ePOD not visible yet: allow time after delivery for the document to post; refresh later or ask the shipper for a copy.
FAQs
What’s the difference between DHL Express and DHL Freight?
Express moves smaller consignments with air-first routing and time-definite parcel delivery. Freight handles pallets and larger cargo by road/rail groupage or dedicated trucks, with different IDs and hub scans. Choose Express for speed on smaller pieces; choose Freight for pallets or bulk.
Can I track by CMR number?
ActiveTracing accepts several inputs. If your CMR number isn’t accepted, use the DHL Order Code / Consignment ID or the Package ID / License Plate printed on the label.
How fast is EURAPID?
EURAPID provides priority groupage with committed lead times on covered lanes, plus optional early-day delivery (Pre-10 / Pre-12) where available. Check postcode coverage at booking time.
Why does my pallet show fewer scans than a parcel?
Road groupage relies on terminal events (arrival/departure) rather than frequent item scans. It’s normal to see fewer timestamps compared with parcel networks.
How long are DHL Freight events kept online?
Operational data is retained online for a limited period; archive access is handled by the contracting DHL Freight country organization. Ask the shipper for historic copies if you need older documents.
Quick tips for shippers and SMEs
- Share the right ID: send the Order Code and the pallet License Plate to the receivers so that either value works in tracking.
- Book EURAPID for deadlines: where coverage exists, use the priority lane and early-day options to meet receiving dock cut-offs.
- Notify receivers: add automatic status emails for “departed origin,” “arrived at destination terminal,” and “out for delivery.”
- Document pack: attach the CMR, commercial invoice (for export), and packing list outside the pallet for quick checks.
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