Emission-free: DHL boat transports parcels across Berlin's waterways

DHL is continuing its expansion of water logistics in Berlin. Following the pilot project between Südhafen Spandau and Westhafen, which has been running since October 2022, the logistics company is planning a second route in the south-east of the city. The new route will run from Köpenick via Oberschöneweide, Rummelsburg and Treptow to Osthafen. An initial trial run has already taken place in Köpenick's old town. Regular operations will start in 2026. The second solar-powered ship will be larger than the existing boat and will be able to transport more consignments. Solar-powered packing stations are planned along the route. The authorisation process is being carried out in cooperation with the Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and the Environment.

Successful outcome for DHL boat

The first solar ship transports around 350 parcels a day on the Spree. Since the start of the project in October 2022, more than 300,000 parcels have been transported - completely emission-free. The DHL boat is 10.50 metres long and 2.50 metres wide and can reach speeds of twelve kilometres per hour. The solar panels on the roof provide enough energy for six to eight hours of travel without sunlight. When the sun is shining, the journey time is unlimited. An electric lorry takes the consignments from the Börnicke parcel centre to Spandau southern port. From the western harbour, electric cargo bikes from the company Rytle cover the last mile. According to DHL, the entire transport chain is fossil fuel-free.

Potential for 15 per cent of all Berlin parcels

DHL sees considerable growth potential for water transport. According to company statements to the Daily Mirror up to 15 per cent of all Berlin parcels could be transported via waterways in the future. The existing route in the west will be extended to include stops at the Humboldt harbour at the main railway station and on the Wikingerufer. District representatives in the south-east see the new route as an opportunity to shift delivery traffic directly to parcel stations close to the water. The concept aims to reduce road traffic in densely built-up districts and organise inner-city deliveries more efficiently.

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Advantages and limitations of inland waterway transport

The Berlin Chamber of Industry and Commerce points to the significantly lower energy requirements of inland shipping compared to lorries and trains. CO₂ emissions and environmental pollution are correspondingly lower. At the same time, transport by water is considered cost-effective. Disadvantages exist in terms of speed and flexibility. Waterways remain competitive for bulk goods and predictable supply chains. Berlin's waterways are the responsibility of the federal and state governments. The Spree, Havel, Dahme, Teltow Canal and Landwehr Canal are federal waterways and are managed by the Waterways and Shipping Office.

Competing use of the waterways

The growing utilisation raises questions about financing and expansion. Commercial shipping, logistics and water tourism are competing for limited capacity. DHL already operates an e-delivery fleet of around 1,000 e-vehicles and 1,700 electric cargo bikes in Berlin. Almost 50 per cent of Berlin's delivery districts are already supplied emission-free. The solar-powered ships are part of this sustainability strategy. The cooperation with the Berlin Senate envisages at least ten solar-powered DHL Packstations along the waterways. The approval process has already begun.