How Hapag-Lloyd and DHL Are Teaming Up to Decarbonize Global Supply Chains

Driving Decarbonization in Maritime Transport

Sustainability in the shipping and logistics industries is no longer just a buzzword—it’s becoming a critical operational goal. Recently, Hapag-Lloyd and DHL Global Forwarding have taken a significant step by entering a three-year agreement aimed at cutting down Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions in their maritime supply chains. This initiative focuses on promoting the uptake of sustainable marine fuels, contributing to greener ocean freight movements and reducing the carbon footprint of global cargo transport.

Details of the Decarbonization Pact

The partnership involves Hapag-Lloyd supplying DHL with sustainable marine fuels for use in its fleet, which enables DHL to claim a proportionate reduction in their Scope 3 emissions—those indirect emissions linked to their supply chain activities. Notably, the first batch of this plan kicked off in July 2025 with an order of 25,000 tons of CO2 equivalent emission avoidance, signaling the practical execution of their commitment.

These fuels are not your garden-variety biofuels; they belong to the category of second-generation biofuels, which means they’re created from waste and residue feedstocks as opposed to food crops, greatly minimizing competition with agricultural resources. This choice underscores a concerted effort to avoid the pitfalls often associated with biofuel production, such as land use change and food security concerns.

Innovative “Book and Claim” Mechanism

What makes this collaboration stand out is the adoption of the “book and claim” chain of custody mechanism. Instead of physically using the sustainable fuel on the shipments tied directly to a particular customer’s cargo, the emissions reduction is accounted for separately. This system enables customers to claim sustainability benefits even when the physical supply of green fuels might be limited or logistically complex. It’s like decoupling the act of decarbonizing from the specifics of cargo movement, which provides flexibility and encourages early adoption in the industry.

How “Book and Claim” Changes the Game

• Allows customers to participate in emission reduction even if the fuel isn’t directly applied to their cargo’s voyage.
• Helps overcome current supply limitations and the higher costs of sustainable marine fuels.
• Drives momentum towards a systemic shift in maritime fuel sourcing and usage.

Strategic Targets and Industry Commitments

Both companies have set ambitious goals reflecting their dedication to climate action. Hapag-Lloyd aims to achieve net-zero fleet emissions by 2045, a deadline that calls for rapid adoption of technologies and fuels that lean heavily on sustainability. DHL isn’t far behind, targeting net-zero by 2050 which aligns with broader corporate responsibility agendas.

Since 2020, Hapag-Lloyd has made continuous strides by deploying these next-gen biofuels, and their customers have had access to environmentally friendlier ocean transport through the Ship Green service. This program blends biofuels into the fleet’s fuel supply, replacing traditional fossil marine fuel oil and allowing customers to reduce their carbon impact directly linked to ocean freight.

DHL’s Green Solutions and GoGreen Plus

DHL Global Forwarding complements this with its GoGreen Plus products. These offerings focus on decarbonizing the entire transportation value chain by combining sustainable fuels and low carbon technologies. The use of book & claim here also gives clients the ability to reduce their indirect Scope 3 emissions arising from upstream and downstream logistics, which is often where the toughest challenges lie.

The Benefits of GoGreen Plus:

The Wider Impact on Logistics and Freight Transport

Efforts like this highlight how decarbonization is becoming a central theme in freight logistics. As companies worldwide seek to lower their carbon footprints, sustainable marine fuels could become a standard component in reducing the environmental impact of global shipping. While the current commercial availability and cost of such fuels present challenges, innovative approaches like book and claim help bridge this gap thoughtfully.

For logistics operators managing cargo, freight, parcels, containers, and bulky items, awareness and adaptation to greener alternatives may soon move from being a nice-to-have to a necessity. Besides environmental benefits, the push toward sustainable shipping fosters a more resilient and forward-thinking supply chain that can better absorb regulatory changes and evolving customer expectations.

How This Collaboration Sets a Trend

• Establishes a replicable model for partnerships between shipping lines and freight forwarders.
• Encourages other players to invest early in sustainable fuels despite supply constraints.
• Shows how transparency and accounting innovation can unlock environmental benefits.

Experience Matters — Choosing the Right Transport Partner

Even with glowing reviews and solid commitments, there’s no substitute for firsthand experience. Getting your cargo transported sustainably and affordably requires a partner that matches your needs with transparent pricing and flexible solutions. Platforms like GetTransport.com offer access to competitive options for international and domestic freight, whether you’re moving offices, transporting vehicles, or shipping bulky goods like furniture.

With services that cover everything from forwarding and moving à dispatch, haulage, and courier deliveries, such platforms make logistical operations smoother while helping you stay aligned with sustainability goals. Their wide range of options makes it easier to find reliable transport solutions without breaking the bank.

So, if you want to navigate the complex world of green logistics without the headache, turning to a resource that brings clarity, convenience, and affordability to the table is the way to go. Réservez votre trajet à GetTransport.com and make shipping smarter and greener.

Looking Ahead: Sustainability’s Role in Global Logistics

Though this partnership may not single-handedly transform global logistics overnight, it certainly signals a positive shift. The maritime sector, being a heavy hitter in world freight, needs bold initiatives to curb emissions effectively. Collaborations like that of Hapag-Lloyd and DHL serve as catalysts, nudging the whole industry toward cleaner technologies and fuels.

At GetTransport.com, staying tuned to these developments is part of the commitment to offer clients services that reflect the changing demands of a more sustainable world. Whether you’re coordinating cross-border shipments, relocating a business, or moving large-scale equipment, being part of this transition means your transport choices can contribute to a greener future. Start planning your next delivery and secure your cargo with GetTransport.com.

Conclusion: Decarbonization and Logistics Hand-in-Hand

The partnership between Hapag-Lloyd and DHL paints a clear picture: decarbonization in shipping is not just possible but happening. By utilizing second-generation biofuels and novel methods like book and claim, they demonstrate actionable ways to tackle emissions within complex supply chains. This has direct implications for logistics, where sustainable shipping can reduce carbon footprints while maintaining efficiency and reliability.

As the global freight and haulage landscape evolves, integrating sustainable alternatives will become essential. Platforms such as GetTransport.com play a crucial role in facilitating access to cost-effective, reliable transport solutions that support environmental goals. Bringing together affordability, global reach, and versatility—from courier parcels to bulky freight and international container shipments—GetTransport.com is a smart partner for the green logistics revolution.