We all want the best for our eCommerce business, especially when it comes to shipping internationally. Both DHL Express and EMS offer shipping solutions for businesses and e-commerce, each with their own advantages.

EMS and DHL Express are both established shipping companies that specialize in international shipping, but there are key differences and unique advantages to each. Both couriers offer unique service options, so it’s important to do your research before choosing which courier is right for your business.

EMS or DHL Express: Which is cheaper for your next international shipment? More reliable? Faster? Read this blog to receive a complete rundown on the features, services, and coverage of these two top global courier companies.

EMS vs. DHL Express: What’s the Difference?

While both are express services for international shipping, DHL Express is a private courier known for its speed and reliability, while EMS is a network of national postal services that is often more affordable. The right choice depends on your priorities regarding speed, cost, and service features.

Feature	EMS	DHL Express
Price	Tends to be more affordable.	Generally higher rates, but with potentially faster transit times and more reliable service.
Speed	Typically slower than private couriers for international shipments.	Often faster with more responsive customer support and tracking.
Tracking	End-to-end tracking is available, but updates may be less frequent than with private companies.	Provides more frequent and detailed tracking updates.
Support	Customer support is handled by the local postal service in each country.	Offers more responsive and consistent client assistance across borders.

Which shipping service should you choose?

‍

If you’re confused about which service to pick, here’s some guidance:

‍

Choose DHL Express if:

‍

You need the fastest, most reliable service for urgent or time-sensitive shipments.
You are shipping high-value items and want detailed tracking and better insurance coverage.
You are sending a heavy or large package.

‍

Choose EMS if:

‍

You are on a budget and speed is not the most critical factor.
You are shipping less urgent, lighter packages.
You need extensive last-mile coverage, as EMS uses national postal services to reach remote areas.

Pros and Cons of DHL Express

DHL Express is a very reliable international shipping option, but let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros	Cons
Speed & reliability: delivers within 1–3 business days	Higher cost compared to EMS
Detailed, real-time tracking visibility	Strict item restrictions (hazardous goods, liquids, powders)
Responsive global customer service	Higher chance of customs duties/taxes
Efficient customs clearance process	Service reliability can decline in very remote areas
Coverage in 220+ countries and territories	—
Higher maximum package weight limit	—

EMS Shipping Basics

EMS is a great affordable option, since it’s run by the Universal Postal Union. Let’s look into the exact advantages and disadvantages of EMS:

Pros	Cons
Lower cost, especially for lighter packages	Slower and less consistent delivery times
Wide last-mile coverage via national postal networks	Less detailed tracking updates
Sometimes fewer customs charges (seen as personal mail)	Inconsistent customer service depending on country
Easy, convenient drop-off at local post offices	Lower liability/insurance coverage
—	Lower maximum package weight limit

Which is Cheaper: EMS or DHL Express?

Here’s a cost comparison between EMS and DHL Express for a 2kg parcel being shipped from Singapore to USA:

Courier	Cost (SGD)	Delivery Speed
EMS (Speedpost Express)	$159	4–7 days
DHL Express	$210	3–4 days

Notes:

SingPost Speedpost Express (EMS): The postal-based express service offers a 2 kg parcel delivery from Singapore to the U.S. in approximately 4 to 7 working days for SGD 159.00.
DHL Express: As a premium courier, DHL delivers faster (3 to 4 days) but at a higher rate of SGD 210.00 for the same package parameters.

How Easyship can Help

While finding the right shipping courier can help you scale your store, developing an effective shipping process and focusing on supply chain management can be just as important. Easyship has a range of user-friendly shipping tools to help grow your store today:

Shipping Rate Calculator: Compare exclusive rates from over 550+ courier services worldwide. Say goodbye to hidden costs and discover the most cost-effective shipping options.

Insurance: Keep your shipments safe and secure with up to $10,000 in insurance coverage, so you can focus on scaling your store without worrying about damages or losses.

Tracking: Boost customer satisfaction with custom-branded tracking emails and automatic message alerts. Keep your customers informed and engaged throughout the entire delivery process.

What are you waiting for? Get started with Easyship and sign up here for free.

EMS vs. DHL Express Shipping FAQ

What does EMS mean in shipping?

EMS stands for Express Mail Service. The Universal Postal Union created the EMS Cooperative to develop express delivery worldwide.

Is EMS shipping safe?

Yes, EMS delivers 8 million packages every week to over 180 designated countries.

Does DHL Express include tracking for all shipments?

Yes, DHL Express provides end-to-end tracking on all shipments, allowing you to monitor your package every step of the way.

Can I ship hazardous materials with EMS or DHL Express?

DHL Express offers services for shipping certain classes of hazardous materials, but strict regulations apply. EMS generally does not support hazardous goods shipping. Always verify specific eligibility before booking.

Which courier is better for time-sensitive shipments?

DHL Express is the better choice for time-sensitive shipments due to its faster and more reliable delivery timelines.

Is customer support better with DHL or EMS?

DHL Express offers superior customer service, including live support and dedicated account managers for business users. EMS support typically runs through local postal services and may vary in responsiveness.

Do both EMS and DHL offer weekend delivery?

DHL Express offers Saturday delivery in select regions, often for an additional fee. EMS weekend delivery availability depends on the destination country's postal operations.

Which service is better for eCommerce businesses?

DHL Express is more feature-rich and reliable for eCommerce businesses requiring fast and trackable international delivery. EMS may be suitable for lower-cost, less urgent shipments.

‍

EMS vs. DHL: Which Is Cheaper For International Shipping?

EMS vs. DHL Express: What’s the Difference?

Which shipping service should you choose?

Choose DHL Express if:

Choose EMS if:

Pros and Cons of DHL Express

EMS Shipping Basics

Which is Cheaper: EMS or DHL Express?

How Easyship can Help

EMS vs. DHL Express Shipping FAQ

What does EMS mean in shipping?

Is EMS shipping safe?

Does DHL Express include tracking for all shipments?

Can I ship hazardous materials with EMS or DHL Express?

Which courier is better for time-sensitive shipments?

Is customer support better with DHL or EMS?

Do both EMS and DHL offer weekend delivery?

Which service is better for eCommerce businesses?

Related Articles

Related Articles

FedEx Delivery Times and Hours

Why U.S. eCommerce Sellers Should Expand Shipping to Europe in 2025

Cheapest Way to Ship to Hawaii: The Complete Guide for Individuals and Businesses

EMS vs. DHL: Which Is Cheaper For International Shipping?

EMS vs. DHL Express: What’s the Difference?

Which shipping service should you choose?

Choose DHL Express if:

Choose EMS if:

Pros and Cons of DHL Express

EMS Shipping Basics

Which is Cheaper: EMS or DHL Express?

How Easyship can Help

EMS vs. DHL Express Shipping FAQ

What does EMS mean in shipping?

Is EMS shipping safe?

Does DHL Express include tracking for all shipments?

Can I ship hazardous materials with EMS or DHL Express?

Which courier is better for time-sensitive shipments?

Is customer support better with DHL or EMS?

Do both EMS and DHL offer weekend delivery?

Which service is better for eCommerce businesses?

Related Articles

Related Articles

FedEx Delivery Times and Hours

Why U.S. eCommerce Sellers Should Expand Shipping to Europe in 2025

Cheapest Way to Ship to Hawaii: The Complete Guide for Individuals and Businesses

Get the latest shipping news, expert guides and invites.