DHL Express to build S$140m S’pore logistics facility

SINGAPORE — DHL Express yesterday unveiled plans for a S$140 million facility in Singapore to support trade and commerce growth across South-east Asia, in a move that is expected to create about 340 jobs next year.

With the new facility — DHL Express’ largest infrastructural investment to date in the Republic — gone are the days when employees have to hand-carry parcels to scan for codes or sort them out manually.

The DHL Express South Asia Hub will feature the first fully automated express parcel sorting-and-processing system in Singapore and South Asia.

This will see the use of automated screening barcode machines and the sorting of parcels through an approximate web of about 3km of conveyors and sorters.

Upon completion in the first quarter of next year, the 24-hour express hub facility will be able to handle more than 628 tonnes of cargo throughput a day at full capacity — about triple the current capability. It will also be able to process shipments six times faster.

“As an industry leader in Singapore’s logistics sector, DHL plays an important role in setting the pace of development for the sector. This new investment is an important one, both in terms of expanded capacity for the industry and showing how companies can apply technology to overcome manpower constraints,” said Mr Teo Ser Luck, Minister of State for Trade and Industry and guest of honour at the unveiling event.

The facility, occupying a land area of 26,200 sq m and a total floor area of 23,600 sq m, will be located in Changi Airfreight Center at Singapore Changi Airport.

Angela Teng