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Already promising easier access for shippers into Europe and beyond, DHL’s new Americas cargo hub in Atlanta also carries the possibility of bringing multiple new freighter services to the city.
Long the world’s busiest passenger airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has lagged when it comes to cargo, and DHL presents a big win for the airport’s efforts to use its considerable freight capacity more productively.
The Germany-based global shipping giant invested $84.5 million in the buildout of the new facility unveiled July 6. The Atlanta hub is linked by direct flights to DHL facilities in the southeastern U.S. and to its European hub in Brussels, helping reduce transit times and improve one-day delivery access.
But ambitious plans call for new air links between Atlanta and Hong Kong, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Puerto Rico, the company outlined in a news release.
“The new DHL Express Atlanta Hub represents a milestone in our ongoing pursuit of sustainability and technological advancement. It also exemplifies our belief in the power of international trade and recognizes the significance of Atlanta and the Southeast U.S. in the global marketplace,” said Mike Parra, CEO of DHL Express Americas, in a statement.
Along with state-of-the-art automated sorting equipment that can handle 20,000 pieces per hour, DHL installed 65,000 square feet of rooftop solar panels that will generate half of the facility’s electricity. The other half will be purchased from sources certified as renewable, cutting net emissions from electricity usage to zero. The LEED-certified building employs electric forklifts, LED lighting and and other touches that help reduce energy consumption.
DHL employs in-house customs brokers on site and works closely with U.S. Border Protection staff to quickly clear items for cross-border shipment.
The building is located at 4400 S. Cargo Drive in Cargo Building C.