EMS vs DHL-What's The Difference?

Virginia Miller

September 1, 2024

In this article:

Frequently Asked Questions

Online shopping has increased in past years. It has become convenient for both suppliers and customers. Some industries can operate globally and are capable of shipping products from one region to another. There are millions of customers who prefer online shopping rather than traditional shopping. It has propelled the demand for logistics companies. These companies ensure that to ship the products the fastest way to reach the destination. With the help of these two shipping companies, people all across the world can get their products delivered efficiently. Not only do they offer quick delivery but also reliable service that is hard to come by nowadays! Before choosing any of them, you must research DHL vs. EMS to know which is best for your business.

What is EMS Shipping?

EMS (Express Mail Service) is an international postal shipping service offered by postal services worldwide. It delivers documents and parcels more quickly than standard mail services. EMS is a popular option for ecommerce shipping because it balances speed and affordability.

How EMS Shipping Works

To use EMS, you'll first need to set up an account with your country's postal service. For example, if shipping from China, you would create an account with China Post. Once your account is set up:

Log in and enter your shipment details
Print a shipping label and attach it to your package
Drop off your parcel at your local post office or postal service location

EMS offers tracking services so you can follow your package's journey. Delivery times vary by destination but are typically faster than standard shipping.

EMS Shipping Pros and Cons

Pros:

Faster and more reliable delivery times than regular mail
More affordable than premium couriers like DHL and FedEx
Tracking services allow visibility into shipping progress

Cons:

Only available to certain countries
Slower than premium couriers
Limited package size and weight restrictions

What is DHL?

DHL is an international shipping provider that offers express document and package delivery services worldwide. It has a larger global presence than postal services like EMS and USPS.

How DHL Shipping Works

To use DHL, you'll first need to create an account on their website. Then:

Log in and enter shipment details
Print a shipping label and attach it to your package
Drop off your parcel at your nearest DHL location or authorized drop off point

DHL has several shipping options to meet different delivery speed and budget needs:

DHL Express: Fastest delivery in 1-3 days
DHL Economy Select: Budget delivery in 2-5 days

DHL Shipping Pros and Cons

Pros:

Extensive global infrastructure for fast, reliable delivery
Multiple service levels to choose from
Package tracking and insurance services

Cons:

More expensive than postal services like EMS
Fuel and residential surcharges can add cost
Need to print shipping labels yourself

EMS vs. DHL: Key Differences

When deciding between EMS and DHL, consider:

Countries served: DHL ships to more destinations than EMS
Speed: DHL is faster overall, especially express services
Cost: EMS is generally cheaper than DHL
Package restrictions: DHL allows heavier packages than EMS

For most ecommerce sellers, EMS offers an affordable shipping solution focused on documents and light packages. DHL is better for heavy freight and guarantees faster delivery times.

The Best Shipping Option Depends on Your Needs

Choosing between EMS and DHL requires understanding your specific shipping requirements like budget, delivery speed, location, and package type. Analyze both options in detail to determine the best fit.

For customized guidance on picking the optimal shipping solutions, consider outsourcing fulfillment. Companies like Simpl offer warehousing, order processing, and access to discounted shipping rates across top carriers. Learn more about Simpl here.

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Recommended: How to Get Free Shipping Supplies from USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EMS shipping?

EMS or Express Mail Service is an international postal shipping service offered by postal services worldwide. It provides faster and more reliable delivery than standard mail services.

What countries does EMS ship to?

EMS shipping is available to over 180 countries globally through postal service partnerships. However, specific country availability varies depending on your postal service.

Is EMS shipping affordable?

Yes, EMS is one of the more affordable international shipping options. It costs less than premium express couriers like DHL or FedEx.

What is DHL shipping?

DHL is an international express shipping provider that offers rapid delivery services across 220+ countries worldwide. It has extensive global infrastructure for fast, reliable delivery.

Is DHL shipping faster than EMS?

Yes, DHL shipping is generally faster than EMS, especially express services like DHL Express. But it also costs more than EMS in most cases.

What is cheaper - EMS or DHL?

EMS shipping is cheaper than DHL in most cases since DHL focuses on fast express delivery. But DHL can be cost-effective for heavier freight due to better package weight allowances.

Can I track EMS or DHL packages?

Yes, both EMS and DHL provide package tracking services so you can monitor the status and journey of your shipment in real-time.

Which shipping company is best for ecommerce?

Most ecommerce sellers use EMS shipping for affordable delivery focused on documents and light packages. DHL works better than EMS for heavy freight and time-sensitive orders.