DHL Supply Chain Acquires IDS Fulfillment to Expand SME E-Commerce Capabilities in the U.S.
May 28, 2025 – United States: DHL Supply Chain, the logistics arm of Germany-based parcel and freight giant DHL, has announced the acquisition of IDS Fulfillment, a strategic move aimed at strengthening its e-commerce service offerings for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the U.S. market.
Strategic Expansion Across Key U.S. Fulfillment Hubs
The acquisition adds more than 1.3 million square feet of warehousing and distribution space to DHL’s North American network, with new facilities in Indianapolis, Salt Lake City, Atlanta, and IDS’ headquarters in Plainfield, Indiana. These locations will help DHL serve a broader customer base while enhancing service levels and fulfillment velocity.
“E-Commerce has been a growth driver for DHL in recent years and is a key focus of our Strategy 2030 agenda,” said Patrick Kelleher, CEO of DHL Supply Chain North America. “The acquisition of IDS ensures that small and midsize companies have access to our state-of-the-art logistics platforms and solutions tailored to their scale and needs.”
Second Major Fulfillment Buy in 2025
This marks DHL Supply Chain’s second e-commerce acquisition in 2025. In January, DHL acquired Inmar Supply Chain Solutions, the leading North American reverse logistics specialist, to become the largest returns processor for online retailers in the region. Combined, these acquisitions significantly strengthen DHL's e-commerce fulfillment capabilities across forward and reverse supply chains.
“With global e-commerce forecasted to grow at 8% CAGR through 2029, we are focused on building a nimble, scalable network that meets the demands of a new digital-first trade economy,” added Oscar de Bok, Global CEO of DHL Supply Chain. “IDS complements our existing fulfillment infrastructure, allowing us to deliver seamless, cross-border eCommerce with local execution.”
Geopolitics Driving Supply Chain Reorientation
The timing of the acquisition is notable. Just days earlier, the U.S. government revoked the de minimis duty exemption on low-value shipments from China and Hong Kong, imposing a 145% tariff on individual orders that previously entered duty-free. This regulatory shift is driving Chinese platforms like Temu, Shein, and Alibaba to build or expand U.S.-based fulfillment and warehousing hubs to stay competitive.
By acquiring IDS, DHL positions itself as a logistics enabler for global sellers localizing inventory in the U.S. through domestic warehousing, bulk importation by ocean freight, and just-in-time regional fulfillment—critical advantages in a post-de minimis environment.
What It Means for SMBs
For U.S.-based SMBs, the deal means expanded access to DHL’s fulfillment stack, enhanced delivery reliability, and strategic support in navigating supply chain complexities. By retaining IDS’ local leadership and operational teams, DHL ensures continuity of service and a smooth integration process.
Conclusion
DHL’s acquisition of IDS Fulfillment reflects an increasingly dynamic e-commerce logistics landscape where global shifts in trade policy, consumer demand, and technology adoption are converging. By investing in infrastructure and localized execution, DHL reinforces its position as a partner of choice for agile, borderless commerce.
