DHL signs MoU with Boston Dynamics for 1,000 more robots

DHL Group has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Boston Dynamics, a global leader in advanced robotics.

"Building on the proven 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. DHL plans to expand the range of applications for the robots, including additional use cases such as case picking,' says an official release from DHL.

The agreement marks a 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, has led the way, introducing Stretch commercially in North America in 2023 and more recently expanding deployments to the United Kingdom and across Europe, the release added.

The deployments of Stretch have achieved 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. "The partnership has also driven joint product development with end-to-end automation solutions integrating conveyors and palletisers as demonstrated in the U.K. project. To further build on these successes, DHL Group is actively exploring how the technology can benefit other business units. A key priority is case picking - the most labour-intensive activity within DHL Supply Chain - which represents the next major development to maximize the impact of Stretch beyond container unloading."

Sally Miller, Global CIO, DHL Supply Chain says: "Through our accelerated digitalisation agenda, we are committed to maximising the impact of robotics and automation across all our operations and business units. 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."

Robert Playter, CEO, Boston Dynamics adds: "We are proud to continue strengthening our collaboration with DHL Group. 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."

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 optimise operations, enhance working conditions for employees and deliver measurable value for customers, the release added.