DHL Group is ramping up its collaboration with Boston Dynamics by planning to deploy over 1,000 additional Stretch robots by 2030. This expanded deal, outlined in a new Memorandum of Understanding, pushes the envelope beyond simple container unloading.
Since 2018, DHL has been integrating Boston Dynamics’ robots into its supply chain. After debuting the Stretch robot in North America in 2023, the technology has already demonstrated its efficiency by unloading as many as 700 cases per hour in Europe and the UK.
Now, DHL is setting its sights on more complex tasks like case picking—a too-familiar pain point for many in logistics that still depends heavily on manual work. A representative from Boston Dynamics explained that the focus will be on developing mobile case picking applications, alongside other initiatives spanning various DHL divisions.
DHL’s drive for automation is evident in its recent investments: over €1 billion in the past three years and more than 7,500 robots deployed around the globe. Partnerships with companies such as AutoStore, Fox Robotics, Geek+, and Locus Robotics have bolstered this momentum. Notably, the milestone of 500 million picks using Locus’ autonomous robots was reached by June 2024, signaling a rapidly accelerating pace of operations.
Sally Miller, global CIO of DHL Supply Chain, summed it up when she noted that the partnership with Boston Dynamics is all about shaping robotics development into more resilient and smarter solutions. With over 90% of its warehouses now running on automated systems, DHL is setting a fresh benchmark for the industry.
Boston Dynamics’ CEO, Robert Playter, also shared his pride in the collaboration, recognising the ingenuity that has led to effective warehouse robotics. Stretch’s ability to adapt to different tasks makes it a natural fit for DHL’s diverse operational needs.
Beyond ground handling, Boston Dynamics is broadening its commercial reach with over 2,000 Spot robots in service worldwide. Meanwhile, Hyundai—who acquired Boston Dynamics in 2021—is investing $21 billion in U.S. operations, including substantial orders for these advanced robots. The company is also keen to test the new Atlas humanoid robot for part sequencing tasks.
Jaehoon Chang, vice chair of Hyundai Motor Group, highlighted the significant role that AI and humanoid robots will play in pushing their business forward. This approach aims to cement their leadership in the robotics sector, promising practical benefits for the industry.
If you’ve ever wrestled with the challenges of manual logistics, these advancements offer a glimpse into a future where technology lightens the load and drives smarter processes.
