DHL expands data centre parts network across North America
Mon, 24th Aug 2026 (Today)
DHL Supply Chain has expanded its service logistics network for data centre infrastructure parts across the US and Canada to more than 150 locations.
The move targets equipment manufacturers that need installation and replacement parts delivered to data centre sites more quickly as build schedules tighten and operators work to avoid outages.
According to DHL, the forward stocking network can deliver mission-critical parts within four hours of a customer request, compared with the 24 to 48 hours manufacturers often face when shipping directly from production facilities or central locations.
The service is intended for original equipment manufacturers supplying cooling systems, power distribution equipment, backup power systems and other capital infrastructure used in data centres. By holding stock closer to major markets, the network is designed to reduce delays during both new installations and repair work.
The expansion comes as demand for digital infrastructure rises with growing computing requirements tied to artificial intelligence workloads and cloud services. Data centre developers and operators are under pressure to bring new capacity online while keeping existing sites running without interruption.
Industry figures cited by DHL highlight the financial risk of service disruption. According to Uptime Institute Intelligence, 57% of major data centre outages cost more than USD $100,000, while one in five exceeds USD $1 million.
Separate research also points to strain in the equipment supply chain. Average lead times for data centre equipment have reached 42 weeks, up 83% from 2019 levels, while 57% of data centre projects experienced delays of three months or more in 2025, according to JLL figures cited by DHL.
Faster response
DHL said the network is already being used by manufacturers of data centre cooling equipment. The model helps those suppliers reduce delays linked to traditional fulfilment methods and improve support for large installed bases of equipment.
The company has built the service around a forward stocking approach widely used in after-sales and field support operations. Parts are stored in smaller locations closer to customer sites rather than in a limited number of regional warehouses. In the data centre market, where system downtime can quickly become costly, that proximity can reduce waiting times for field engineers and operators.
DHL said the network is supported by warehouse management systems, parts distribution technology, analytics and real-time visibility tools. These systems help determine where stock should be placed, estimate likely demand and track parts as they move through the network.
Jenny Sander, Vice President, Service Logistics, DHL Supply Chain North America, linked the expansion to mounting operational pressure in the sector. "As demand for AI and other computing workloads outpaces development, data center operators are under pressure to bring new systems online faster while maintaining uptime across existing infrastructure," said Sander.
"Equipment manufacturers need service models that position these critical installation and replacement parts closer to the point of use to reclaim valuable time from stretched project schedules. Our forward stocking network will accelerate deployment schedules, improve parts availability, and help manufacturers meet customer demand for rapid installation support and service response," Sander said.
Broader push
The service forms part of DHL's broader effort to expand its position in data centre logistics in North America. Earlier this year, the company added 10 warehouse sites with more than seven million square feet of capacity to support hyperscale and colocation infrastructure projects.
Those facilities support services including rack configuration, specialist handling and warehouse-to-site transport for high-value equipment such as power and cooling systems. Customers can also combine the forward stocking service with freight forwarding, customs support and road transport for heavy or oversized components.
The expansion reflects a broader shift in how logistics groups are targeting data centres as a growth market. As construction pipelines lengthen and operators require tighter coordination across equipment delivery, site installation and maintenance, logistics providers are moving beyond transport into inventory positioning and field support.
DHL employs about 389,000 people across more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. Its parent group reported revenue of about EUR €82.9 billion in 2025.