DHL Express has launched its HK$1.5bn (US$1.9bn) Hong Kong West Service Center (KWC).
Fully automated facility
Featuring a fully automated sorting system, the facility can handle over 50,000 shipments a day, offering a double increase in sorting capacity compared to its predecessor. The facility is also newly equipped with in-line reweighing and dimensioning machines and 100% in-line x-ray screening to facilitate greater operational efficiency and accuracy in shipment handling.
Located in the Tuen Mun West logistics site assigned by the HKSAR government to support modern logistics development, the KWC has direct access to Hong Kong’s transportation network. It is only a 20-minute drive to Hong Kong International Airport via the Tuen Mun-Chek Lap Kok tunnel – and is close to container terminals and mainland China. The transportation network offers shippers faster access to markets and enhanced connectivity through DHL’s global network covering over 220 countries and territories.
Taking steps toward green and sustainable logistics
According to DHL, the fully automated facility is the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold-certified service center in Hong Kong. Key sustainable features of KWC include expandable electric vehicle charging stations, with the capacity to support over 30 EV chargers and meet DHL Express’s future EV fleet expansion demands; 100% battery-operated forklifts to reduce carbon emissions; a building management system; and smart meters deployed for remote monitoring and control of energy consumption. Additionally, all lights are equipped with dimmable LEDs powered by smart controls, thereby minimizing electricity consumption. The system is programmed to turn off lights during non-peak hours and switch off lights when rooms are unoccupied. Alongside this, an efficient air-conditioning system and big ceiling fans are installed for better ventilation and more efficient energy consumption.
Gearing up to address growing trade demand
The unveiling of the facility is aligned with the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s plan to develop the city into a sustainable, international, smart logistics hub focusing on high-value goods and e-commerce markets. Building upon the growth potential of the Greater Bay Area, the completion of the three-runway system this year and the projected increase in Hong Kong’s exports by 4% to 6%, the new facility is well poised to capitalize on potential business opportunities.
“The recent launch of our expanded Central Asia Hub at Hong Kong International Airport and the opening of this fully automated Hong Kong West Service Center strengthen our network and capabilities. They also reinforce our commitment to enhancing Hong Kong’s position as an international trade and logistics hub,” said Andy Chiang, senior vice president and managing director of DHL Express Hong Kong and Macau. “At DHL, we keep sustainability close to heart. Earning the first LEED Gold certification for our service center in Hong Kong is a testament to our ongoing efforts to reduce our carbon footprint across all operations. DHL will continue to invest in low-emission solutions, sustainable energy sources and greener vehicle fleet and facilities to further enhance operational efficiency while minimizing the environmental impact.”
To find out more about DHL’s hub opening plans, read Parcel and Postal Technology International’s exclusive feature on DHL’s recently opened US$195m sortation center in Poznan, Poland, here.