DHL Accelerates Industrial Automation with 1,000+ Boston Dynamics Robots: Merging Intelligent Automation and Logistics Innovation
DHL Group and Boston Dynamics have announced a landmark expansion of their collaboration, set to deploy over 1,000 Stretch robots—cutting-edge automation equipment—across DHL’s global warehouses. Unveiled at DHL’s annual general meeting on May 13, 2025, this initiative underscores the critical role of industrial automation and intelligent automation in reshaping logistics. By integrating Boston Dynamics’ advanced robotics into its operations, DHL aims to automate labor-intensive tasks, from container unloading to case picking, while solidifying its leadership in smart supply chain solutions.
The Stretch Robot: A Paradigm of Industrial Automation
As a cornerstone of industrial automation, the Stretch robot exemplifies how automation equipment can transform physically demanding logistics tasks. Equipped with a 7-degree-of-freedom robotic arm, vacuum suction system, and AI-powered computer vision, Stretch leverages intelligent automation to handle up to 700 boxes per hour—even in extreme environments. Its technical features, including Intel RealSense sensors and ROS 2 onboard computing, enable autonomous navigation and real-time decision-making, reducing reliance on manual labor and enhancing precision.
“Stretch isn’t just a robot; it’s a symbol of how industrial automation and intelligent automation can redefine efficiency,” said a DHL spokesperson. “By deploying this automation equipment, we’re not just optimizing workflows—we’re creating a blueprint for the future of logistics.”
Global Deployment: Scaling Automation Beyond Borders
The deployment of 1,000+ Stretch robots across the Americas, Europe, and Asia marks a pivotal step in DHL’s industrial automation strategy. Beyond unloading, these robots will tackle tasks like case picking, using intelligent automation to adapt to varying box sizes, weights, and warehouse layouts. This aligns with DHL’s broader $10+ billion investment in automating its logistics network, which includes co-developing next-gen automation equipment with Boston Dynamics—such as robots capable of collaborative missions alongside human workers.
The Dual Promise of Automation: Efficiency and Empowerment
While the primary goal is to enhance operational efficiency, DHL emphasizes that industrial automation and intelligent automation serve to empower, not replace, human workers. By handling repetitive tasks, Stretch robots free employees to focus on high-value roles like system maintenance, robotics programming, and process optimization. “This is a human-centric vision of automation,” noted DHL’s management team. “Automation equipment like Stretch enhances safety, reduces fatigue, and allows our workforce to evolve with technology.”
Conclusion: Intelligent Automation as the New Frontier of Logistics
With this expansion, DHL demonstrates that the future of logistics lies at the intersection of industrial automation and intelligent automation. The Stretch robot fleet isn’t just a collection of automation equipment; it’s a network of intelligent collaborators capable of adapting to real-time challenges, optimizing energy use, and driving sustainability.
As DHL’s global warehouses become testbeds for intelligent automation, the message is clear: In an era of labor shortages and supply chain complexity, companies that integrate advanced automation equipment and industrial automation will lead the charge. For DHL, the journey toward a robotic future is already underway—one box, one robot, and one intelligent solution at a time.
