NORFOLK, Virginia —
As global trade continues to gain importance, DHL Express has announced the relocation and expansion of its Norfolk service center in Virginia, marking a significant enhancement of its operations in the region to better serve the growing import-export market. The new facility, more than double the size of its predecessor, features advanced equipment and technology that will provide businesses in Eastern Virginia with faster, more efficient, and more reliable global connectivity.
Strategic Investment to Fuel Regional Economic Growth
The $7.3 million facility represents more than just a warehouse — it serves as an integrated operational hub combining cargo handling and customer service. Equipped with modern retail ServicePoint counters, the center offers more convenient direct services to clients. The enhanced processing capacity and accelerated handling speed will extend cut-off times for shippers in Eastern Virginia, allowing businesses to respond more flexibly to market demands and seize opportunities.
This strategic investment underscores DHL's confidence in Eastern Virginia's economic development and its commitment to providing world-class logistics services to local enterprises. "Through this new facility, DHL is excited to expand and enhance its capabilities for international shippers in one of the nation's largest export markets," said Nemer Abohasen, Vice President and General Manager of DHL Express. "We remain committed to helping businesses of all sizes capitalize on growth opportunities abroad."
Prime Location Serving Key Economic Areas
Strategically located at 2551 Almeda Avenue, the new service center will provide local pickup and delivery services for Norfolk and surrounding areas, covering regions from Chesapeake's shipyards to Kitty Hawk and the Outer Banks. This location was carefully selected to leverage the area's economic significance and increasing logistics demands.
As a major port city with extensive transportation networks and abundant industrial resources, Norfolk serves as a crucial gateway connecting the United States to global markets. The upgraded DHL facility will further improve regional logistics efficiency and stimulate economic prosperity.
Four Key Advantages Powering Logistics Efficiency
The enhanced facility offers several critical benefits that form the core of DHL's high-performance logistics engine:
- Global Network Integration: Daily 737 freighter flights connect Richmond International Airport with DHL's global hub at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), supplemented by trucking services to and from DHL's JFK Gateway, ensuring rapid worldwide delivery.
- Expanded Storage Capacity: The 25,200-square-foot warehouse and office space provides ample room for cargo storage and processing, with capacity for future growth.
- Advanced Material Handling: State-of-the-art equipment and nearly triple the number of loading docks (now totaling 30) significantly improve cargo handling efficiency.
- Sustainability Commitment: Charging stations and upcoming fully electric delivery vehicles support DHL Group's sustainability roadmap targeting 60% electrification of its global delivery fleet by 2030.
Enhanced Operations Supporting Business Growth
Staffed by more than 30 operations and management personnel, the new center can process up to 2,000 shipments per hour, including domestic U.S. and time-definite international freight to 225 countries and territories served by DHL Express. This robust processing capacity ensures timely and accurate deliveries.
Local parcel delivery growth is primarily driven by B2B and B2C e-commerce shipments, along with services for federal contractors and organizations affiliated with the U.S. government. DHL's expansion directly addresses these increasing demands with improved logistics services.
Strategic Implications of the Norfolk Expansion
DHL's facility upgrade represents more than physical expansion — it reflects strategic recognition of global trade trends and evolving customer needs:
- Capitalizing on growing international trade opportunities
- Strengthening regional competitiveness in global commerce
- Addressing diverse customer requirements through enhanced services
- Advancing sustainability initiatives in logistics operations
- Consolidating market leadership through infrastructure investment
Economic Impact on the Norfolk Region
The upgraded facility is expected to generate multiple benefits for the local economy:
- Improved logistics efficiency reducing operational costs for businesses
- Increased attractiveness for investment and trade opportunities
- Creation of additional employment opportunities
- Demonstration effect advancing regional logistics standards
With its global network, operational excellence, and commitment to innovation, DHL Express continues to strengthen its position as a trusted logistics partner for businesses navigating international markets. The Norfolk facility expansion represents another step in the company's ongoing investment in infrastructure and service capabilities to meet evolving customer needs in an increasingly interconnected global economy.