DHL
DHL is the most important carrier for returns in DACH. 8returns supports label generation, QR code returns, parcel shop drop-off, and live tracking.
DHL is the largest parcel carrier in Germany and the most important logistics partner for DACH ecommerce. As part of Deutsche Post DHL Group, they operate 28,000+ Paketshops across Germany – giving customers more drop-off options than any other carrier in the region.
8returns connects to DHL as one of 150+ supported carrier services, but for merchants selling primarily in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, DHL is typically the default return carrier.
DHL + 8returns
The integration covers five core areas:
Label generation. When a customer submits a return request through your 8returns portal, the system generates a DHL return label automatically. The label can be emailed to the customer as a PDF, included in the order confirmation, or packed in the original shipment. Your team doesn't touch the label creation process – it's fully automated based on your return rules.
QR code returns (printerless). Instead of a PDF label, customers can receive a QR code. They show this QR code at a DHL Paketshop, and the label prints on-site. This is one of the most convenient return methods in Germany – it removes the "I don't have a printer" barrier entirely.
Drop-off network. DHL's network in Germany is unmatched: 28,000+ Paketshops. Most German consumers live within a few minutes of a DHL drop-off point. The 8returns portal shows customers their nearest DHL locations based on their postal code, reducing friction at the moment they need to send the package.
Live tracking. Once a return enters the DHL network, 8returns pulls tracking events in real time. Your customers see status updates in the return portal ("package received by DHL," "in transit," "delivered to warehouse"), and your team sees the same data in the 8returns dashboard. This cuts "where is my refund?" support tickets significantly – customers can self-serve the information.
Customs documentation. For international returns (EU to EU or non-EU), 8returns generates the required customs forms alongside the DHL label. This includes CN23 declarations, commercial invoices, and commodity codes. The documents travel with the package, so returns don't get stuck at customs.
Use Cases
Printerless returns via QR code at any DHL location
A customer initiates a return in your 8returns portal and receives a QR code by email. They walk into one of DHL's 28,000+ Paketshops in Germany, scan the QR code, and the label prints on-site. No home printer needed – the return is in the DHL network within minutes.
Home pickup for bulky items
For furniture, electronics, or other heavy items, customers can schedule a DHL pickup directly from home through the 8returns portal. DHL collects the package at the customer's door, and 8returns tracks the pickup status so your team knows when the return is in transit.
International returns with automated customs documentation
A customer in France returns a product to your warehouse in Germany. 8returns generates the DHL label and the required customs documents (CN23 form, commercial invoice) automatically. DHL handles the cross-border shipment, and 8returns tracks the package through customs clearance.
German merchants with high return volumes
A fashion retailer processing 500+ returns per month uses 8returns to auto-generate DHL labels based on return reasons. Easy exchanges get labels immediately, while items flagged for inspection route to a different workflow. DHL's Paketshop network gives customers 28,000+ drop-off points within walking distance.
