The German logistics giant said its network of EV and Battery Centers of Excellence now links more than 20 sites across the globe, with further locations slated for rollout. The network integrates capabilities from DHL Supply Chain, DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express, offering end‑to‑end handling of battery manufacturing logistics, transportation, warehousing, aftermarket services and full battery‑lifecycle management.
Demand for specialised battery logistics is accelerating as electrification spreads beyond passenger cars into heavy‑duty equipment, mining operations and grid‑scale energy infrastructure. DHL noted that some battery systems now exceed 50 tons, creating new challenges for handling, regulatory compliance and coordinated global movement.
“Battery logistics is fundamentally different from traditional supply chains,” said Francisco Milián, head of inbound to manufacturing for DHL Supply Chain EMEA and a member of the DHL New Energy Board. He added that customers require specialised capabilities throughout the battery lifecycle, from inbound logistics and manufacturing support to storage, distribution, refurbishment, returns and recycling.
To meet those needs, DHL’s specialised facilities combine high‑bay warehousing with services such as battery diagnostics, testing, charging, conditioning, repair, reverse‑logistics and preparation for recycling. In Halle, Germany, the company has opened 13,000 m² of battery‑ready warehouse space, while a dedicated centre in Hungary is expected to become operational in 2027.
The expanded network also underpins DHL’s role in deploying utility‑scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) and supporting renewable‑energy projects. During the first half of 2026, DHL delivered more than 1,100 BESS units worldwide. “Electrification is creating logistics requirements that range from global battery supply chains to the deployment of grid‑scale energy infrastructure,” said Martyn Lawns, CEO of DHL Industrial Projects and senior vice‑president of growth for new energy at DHL Group. He highlighted the integration of international freight expertise, dangerous‑goods compliance and heavy‑lift project logistics through DHL Global Forwarding and the Industrial Projects unit.
In related news, DHL Express has added a weekly freighter flight linking Bahrain and Johannesburg, further extending the company’s global reach for time‑critical shipments.