DHL eCommerce Expands with New High-Tech Distribution Center in Virginia

DHL eCommerce has successfully moved its distribution center from Elkridge, Maryland, to a spacious 138,500-square-foot facility in Manassas, Virginia. This relocation was prompted by the need to accommodate the increasing shipment volumes.

The new distribution center in Virginia boasts double the size of its predecessor and features 41 dock doors dedicated to truck loading. Trucks departing from this facility travel to various DHL distribution centers or directly to the United States Postal Service, as explained by Craig Morris, COO for DHL eCommerce, Americas, in an email to Supply Chain Dive.

To manage its operations in the new location, DHL plans to deploy approximately 130 employees, offering support to customers in Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic states. As part of its expansion strategy, the company is not only moving to larger facilities but is also incorporating warehouse automation.

The upgraded Virginia facility is equipped with two large line sorters, each capable of processing an impressive 14,000 parcels and packages per hour. Additionally, DHL is leveraging the proximity of Washington Dulles International Airport, located just 30 minutes away, for sending and receiving day-definite shipments. These day-definite shipments fall under DHL’s Expedited Max product category.

This strategic move to Virginia aligns with DHL's five-year growth plan unveiled in 2021, driven by the anticipated surge in e-commerce demand. In 2023, DHL eCommerce expanded its footprint by establishing facilities in Arizona, Utah, Florida, and Kentucky.