Case Study: DHL achieves safer, more predictable trailer unloading with Boston Dynamics Stretch

DHL Supply Chain is deploying Stretch to automate trailer unloading and support warehouse associates

DHL Supply Chain, a division of the global logistics leader, faced challenges in its labor-intensive warehouse operations, including labor shortages, employee fatigue during peak seasons, and worker safety concerns in environments with extreme temperatures. To address these issues and remain a leader in automation, DHL partnered with vendor Boston Dynamics to implement its Stretch robot for automating trailer unloading.

The solution from Boston Dynamics was Stretch, a highly mobile robot with a vacuum gripper that autonomously unloads boxes from shipping containers with minimal required infrastructure. The implementation resulted in a consistent and reliable unloading throughput, increased productivity, and reduced product damage from drops. Most importantly, Stretch enhanced workplace safety by taking over this physically demanding task, which in turn improved employee morale and positioned DHL as a forward-thinking employer.

DHL

Collin Jacobs

Engineer