DHL group signs MOU with Boston Dynamics for additional 1K robot deployment

Global logistics provider DHL Group has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with advanced robotics provider Boston Dynamics, a global leader in advanced robotics.

Building on the success of Boston Dynamics’ Stretch robot - designed for case handling and initially deployed by DHL to automate container unloading - the agreement paves the way for the global deployment of more than 1,000 additional units. Looking ahead, DHL said it plans to expand the range of applications for the robots, including additional use cases such as case picking.

DHL, Boston Dynamics expand collaboration

This agreement marks a significant milestone in an already successful collaboration, which began in 2018 and has since delivered tangible improvements in logistics automation. DHL Supply Chain, the Group’s contract logistics division, introduced Stretch commercially in North America in 2023 and more recently expanded deployments to the United Kingdom and across Europe.

To date, the deployments of Stretch have achieved case unloading rates of up to 700 cases per hour and contributed to higher employee satisfaction by reducing the need for physically demanding work in hot or cold trailers, according to DHL. The partnership has also driven joint product development with end-to-end automation offerings, integrating conveyors and palletizers, as demonstrated in the UK project.

To further build on these successes, DHL Group said it is actively exploring how the technology can benefit other business units. A key priority is case picking - the most labor-intensive activity within DHL Supply Chain - which represents the next major development to maximize the impact of Stretch beyond container unloading.

“Through our Accelerated Digitalization agenda, we are committed to maximizing the impact of robotics and automation across all our operations and business units,” said Sally Miller, global CIO of DHL Supply Chain. “It’s a fundamental shift that’s reshaping how we operate and elevate service for our customers. Through this expanded partnership with Boston Dynamics, DHL will take a more active role in shaping and directing robotics development alongside key partners, focusing on building more resilient, responsive and smarter solutions that address the unique challenges of our company. Together, we’re setting new standards for the logistics industry.”

DHL continues automation invenstment

Over the past three years, DHL Group has invested over €1 billion in automation in its contract logistics division alone. Across its global network, the Group now uses more than 7,500 robots, over 200,000 smart handheld devices, and close to 800,000 IoT sensors to optimize operations, enhance working conditions for employees and deliver measurable value for customers. Today, more than 90% of DHL warehouses worldwide are equipped with at least one automation or digitalization solution.

DHL said it is bolstering its automation strategy by placing greater emphasis on co-developing systems with both new and established robotics partners, rather than relying solely on off-the-shelf technologies, including this DHL and Boston Dynamics partnership.

DHL Group offers real-world operational environments as a proving ground for advanced technologies, providing critical feedback and industry-specific insights. Moving beyond a traditional vendor relationship, the companies will jointly develop, test and scale systems in real-time operations.

DHL said this allows it to focus on core logistics strengths, while robotics innovators can create tailor-made technologies for the company’s and the logistics industry’s needs. This open, operationally integrated approach also allows DHL and Boston Dynamics to jointly advance technologies like Stretch, while also exploring further synergies across divisions.

“We are proud to continue strengthening our collaboration with DHL Group,” said Robert Playter, CEO of Boston Dynamics. “Our teams have been on a journey of innovation together to create a practical and effective warehouse robotics solution, and this is the natural next step in what has been an excellent relationship. Stretch is ideally suited to be the first multi-use case, box picking robot that can meet the diverse needs of DHL. Together we are striving to set an example of practical leadership of the modern supply chain.”

As part of Strategy 2030, DHL Group said aims to further formalize its partnerships with technology leaders, driving not just deployment at scale, but also joint development, co-investment and deeper collaboration models. This integrated approach - ranging from robotics partnerships to mutually beneficial incentive programs - will play a central role in establishing robotics and automation as key drivers of sustainable, long-term growth across DHL Group.