Changing a DHL delivery address requires contacting DHL before the shipment reaches the final delivery stage.
To change a DHL address, use DHL’s On-Demand Delivery (ODD), update the address through the DHL tracking page, or contact customer service with the tracking number before the parcel is out for delivery.

Address changes are common, especially when warehouses, customers, or import centers shift plans midway. Early action keeps the shipment moving smoothly and prevents re-routing fees or returns.

Can the delivery address of a DHL shipment be changed?

Delivery addresses can only be changed if the shipment is not yet loaded for final delivery.
DHL allows address corrections through On-Demand Delivery or customer service, depending on the parcel’s status and destination country.

How DHL’s address-change system works

DHL uses a security-first process to prevent fraud and mis-delivery.
Below is how the process operates across DHL Express and DHL eCommerce:

DHL Express

• Address changes are supported through On-Demand Delivery (ODD).
• Not all countries permit full address changes; some only allow delivery to a DHL Service Point.
• Changes are disabled once the courier is “Out for Delivery.”

DHL eCommerce

• Address changes require contacting the seller or DHL customer service.
• Some low-cost eCommerce services do not support rerouting due to local-carrier restrictions.

Why rerouting matters

Timely rerouting reduces failed-delivery attempts, prevents return-to-sender costs, and maintains consistent lead times when handling international imports or dropship operations.

How to change a DHL delivery address step by step?

DHL follows a structured verification workflow to protect the shipment.
The fastest way is to use DHL On-Demand Delivery to request an address update, schedule a new delivery time, or redirect to a pickup point.

Detailed steps to update the address

Step 1 — Open the DHL tracking page

Enter the tracking number into the DHL Express or DHL eCommerce tracking system.

Step 2 — Select “Change Delivery” or “On-Demand Delivery (ODD)”

If ODD is available for the shipment, a menu will show:

• Change address
• Deliver to neighbor
• Deliver to DHL Service Point
• Vacation hold
• Change delivery date

Step 3 — Submit the new delivery details

DHL may request:

• Recipient phone number
• Postal code verification
• Email confirmation
• Identity check for high-value parcels

Step 4 — Receive confirmation

If the new address is accepted, DHL sends a confirmation email or SMS.
If not accepted, DHL usually provides the closest alternative solution (e.g., Service Point collection).

Step 5 — Monitor tracking for rerouting progress

Status updates typically show: “Delivery Instructions Received”, “Address Correction”, or “Redirected”.

Operational insights for import shipments

Address changes occur frequently when:

• multiple suppliers send parcels to a consolidation facility
• warehouse addresses change
• recipients want local pickup instead of home delivery

Advanced planning, unified labeling, and consistent tracking reduce rerouting issues across large shipment volumes.

What if DHL cannot change the address?

Not all shipments qualify for rerouting.
If DHL cannot change the address, the shipment may be held at a service point, returned to the sender, or require additional verification before release.

Situations where DHL blocks address changes

Shipment already out for delivery

Once loaded onto the courier truck, re-routing is not possible.

Regulatory restrictions

Certain countries restrict redirection due to customs controls or security laws.

Incorrect or incomplete address data

If the postal code or recipient information does not match security checks, DHL may require sender approval.

Economy cross-border services

Some eCommerce services handled by local partners do not support any address changes.

Practical risk-control measures

Ensuring correct address formatting, pre-checking postal data, and using digital labels lowers the chance of address errors.
Large import flows benefit from warehouse-level verification, standardized label formats, and integrated tracking systems that detect address issues before dispatch.

Conclusion

Changing a DHL delivery address is usually possible when the request is made early and through the official ODD system or customer service channels.
Clear shipment documentation, accurate addressing, and timely tracking checks contribute to smoother rerouting and reduce the risk of returns, delays, or added fees.
Consistent operational control—such as centralized address management, pre-dispatch verification, and proactive tracking oversight—helps maintain steady transit times across international supply chains. Shipping networks function best when address changes are handled promptly, with clear data and aligned processes, ensuring predictable delivery performance even during high-volume periods.