Important Information

Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA) was introduced by HMRC on 1 January 2021 as a way for businesses to account for VAT applied by HMRC on shipments being imported into the UK (where VAT is applicable).

Until now, DHL Express has operated PVA on a customer “opt-in” basis. However, from 1 February 2022, we will automatically apply PVA for all VAT registered customers whenever import VAT is due.

If you do not wish for PVA to be applied, and want to continue receiving invoices to pay the costs up front or have the costs charged to your deferment account, please opt out of PVA by emailing UK Imports by 14 January 2022, ensuring you include your company name, address and VAT/EORI number.

Find out more about PVA

If you are self-isolating due to COVID-19 related requirements (you have tested positive, are awaiting a test result, or have been instructed to self-isolate), we regret that we are not able to collect shipments from you.

When shipping, several regulations & policies must be observed. Therefore, DHL reserves the right to physically inspect any item tendered for carriage. Shipments lodged by our cash or credit card paying customers require 100% physical inspection. This policy is aligned with the legal and regulatory requirements of numerous governments and other regulatory authorities for the express delivery industry to ensure only legitimate shipments are processed.

Shipments may also be subject to other security control methods deemed necessary, such as Sniffer Dogs or X-ray without prior notice to the Shipper, Consignee and/or Payer.

Please note: As Items sent as gifts (Birthdays, Festive or Seasonal Celebrations etc.) are also subject to the same inspection(s) as noted above, Shippers are therefore advised not to wrap gifts or seal shipments upon tendering.

We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Until further notice, DHL Express will not accept shipments of military items subject to national export (or extra-territorial re-export) controls. Customers will be notified as soon as the suspension is lifted.

This suspension does not include domestic shipments or shipments of licensed dual-use items.

If you are uncertain whether your shipment contains military items subject to national export controls, please contact your national licensing authority.

Against the backdrop of the global COVID-19 outbreak, we are continuously adapting our business to mitigate potential impacts. The safety of our employees and customers is paramount, therefore in line with government guidance, DHL Express in the UK is moving to home working for employees where possible.

It is business as usual across all of our departments, however, as we migrate to new ways of working, there may be a short delay in answering your call and we ask for your patience at this time. Where possible, please use the following online services:

Track your shipment
Manage your delivery
All other enquiries

Thank you for your understanding.