DHL expands Agra service center to strengthen export efficiency

DHL Express, a global leader in international express shipping, has announced the expansion and relocation of its service center in Agra, a move that marks a significant step in strengthening the export potential of North India’s MSME-driven economy. The new 3,900 sq ft facility, equipped with advanced automation and strategic layout enhancements, is poised to elevate operational efficiency and service quality for one of India’s most export-reliant cities.

Agra, well known beyond its iconic Taj Mahal, is home to a vibrant and diverse MSME sector that fuels the local and national economy. Industries ranging from traditional Zari Zardozi and marble crafts to modern leather and footwear manufacturing make the city a crucial node in India’s global trade map. DHL’s investment in this region reflects its long-standing commitment to these small and medium businesses, which are key drivers of job creation and innovation.

The upgraded service center features a motorized conveyor system specifically designed for the reweighing of Conveyable Goods (COY), ensuring faster and more accurate processing—especially critical during peak seasons. The expansion is not just about floor space but about smarter logistics. Dedicated parking for pickup and delivery vehicles, a separate zone for Non-Conveyable Goods (NCY), and increased sorting capacity all contribute to improved on-road productivity and optimized delivery timelines.

“Agra has always been integral to India’s export story,” said R.S. Subramanian, SVP South Asia, DHL Express. “The new service center enables us to serve customers with even greater speed and reliability, while ensuring our operations remain cost-efficient. This investment also allows earlier departures to our Delhi gateway, helping us uphold a 98.1% on-time delivery rate from this location.”

From a long-term perspective, the new center is built to accommodate significant year-over-year volume growth through 2033, as confirmed by Peter Bardens, SVP Network Operations, Asia Pacific, DHL Express. The facility is part of a broader infrastructure push in North India under DHL’s “Strategy 2030: Accelerating Sustainable Growth” blueprint.

In a notable development, DHL Express India is also partnering with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in 2025 to roll out training and capacity-building workshops tailored for MSMEs in Agra. These initiatives will support cross-border e-commerce readiness and foster global competitiveness among local businesses.

DHL’s Agra expansion is not just a logistics upgrade—it’s a vote of confidence in India’s MSMEs and their potential to power the next wave of global trade.