DHL: A Strategic Guide to Sustainable B2B Shipping

As customer expectations rise, many businesses are turning delivery into a key source of competitive advantage.

Sustainability is now central to the shift, with organisations actively integrating ESG measures into their operations.

Global logistics giant DHL has outlined some of the most effective ways for companies to boost customer satisfaction by ensuring B2B deliveries are cleaner, more efficient and more cost-effective.

Meeting demands

B2B procurement has traditionally centred on cost savings and securing the best value, but sustainability has become a leading factor in recent years. With global regulations tightening, emissions tracking across Scope 1, 2 and 3 has moved sharply into focus. As a result, more businesses are exploring sustainable shipping as a way to strengthen their competitive position and reduce supply chain impact.

Research from Bain & Company shows that 36% of B2B buyers would leave suppliers that fail to meet their sustainability expectations. A supplier’s environmental performance can determine whether a customer chooses to work with them, making informed supply chain decisions essential. As a leading logistics provider, DHL offers insight into how sustainable shipping can enhance a company’s reputation.

Only 53% of B2B customers are satisfied with the sustainable options offered by suppliers, highlighting a clear opportunity for differentiation. Large corporations often impose strict sustainability standards on their partners, meaning that offering sustainable shipping can open the door to new business. Although initial costs may be higher, sustainable shipping can reduce expenses over time, particularly through lower fuel consumption driven by energy-efficient transport.

"Even with economic pressures, both B2C and B2B customers are choosing brands that prioritise ESG goals and are sincere and transparent about their efforts," explains Katharina Tomoff, SVP for Global ESG at DHL Supply Chain. 

A sustainable shipping strategy

B2C transactions have begun to influence the growth of B2B e-commerce, with more buyers expecting speed, convenience and sustainability.

The nature of B2B shipping means that it is very easy to implement a sustainable shipping strategy:

• Shipment size and frequency: B2B shipping leans towards larger deliveries with infrequent shipping, allowing for route optimisation and reduced emissions
• Delivery speed & flexibility: B2B deliveries are usually scheduled in advanced, meaning that sustainable planning can take place
• Order destination: B2B consumerism makes it easier to optimise routes, reduce inefficiencies associated with last-mile delivery and consolidate shipments as orders are usually delivered to a singular location - such as warehouses or distribution centres

Achieving eco-friendly shipping

As well as having a positive environmental impact, low-emissions B2B delivery is proven to increase long-term efficiency, brand reputation and cost savings.

"E-commerce is evolving – from AI-driven personalisation and social commerce to the rise of B2B and borderless trade," says Pablo Ciano, CEO at DHL eCommerce.

“Businesses are scaling faster, selling smarter and prioritising sustainability like never before. At DHL, we’re proud to support this momentum, helping retailers deliver with speed, trust and responsibility in every market they serve.”

Sustainable fuels

DHL's GoGreen Plus uses sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to help businesses reduce carbon emissions, as it is produced from renewable sources like vegetable oils and waste products and can reduce GHG emissions by up to 80%. It is a good option for SMEs and e-commerce businesses with small cargo loads.

Electrifying fleets

DHL is aiming to electrify 66% of its last-mile delivery vehicles by 2030, as part of its wider plan to achieve net-zero by 2050. By partnering with an EV-focused company, businesses stand to reduce carbon from final-mile deliveries.

Optimise routes

AI-powered route planning is a smart and efficient solution. It can find the most time- and fuel-efficient routes to help drivers complete deliveries in the most strategic way. This cuts down on emissions, demonstrates driver reliability and meets customer demand for speed.

Reduce failed delivery

Failed deliveries significantly increase a business' carbon footprint and extra costs. By selecting a logistics partner with a real-time tracking service, businesses can enhance the customer experience. DHL's On-Demand Delivery (ODD) service offers flexible delivery options, providing the ability to reschedule or redirect parcels.

Measure and improve

Businesses must measure emissions and efficiency improvements, using tools and software to help track data. In doing so, businesses can set further goals and promote progress on sustainability metrics – making them a more appealing choice for clients.

By investing in the aforementioned measures, businesses can gain a competitive edge and reduce emissions all at once.