In today‘s fast-paced business world, time sensitive and valuable shipments require more than just standard shipping. Companies working with urgent prototypes, confidential documents, medical supplies or critical spare parts need absolute certainty that their shipment will arrive safely and intact. This is where On Board Courier (OBC) solutions come into play – they offer unrivaled reliability, security and personal attention.
What is an On Board Courier Service?
An On Board Courier (OBC) is a specialized logistics service for shipments that require personal supervision and maximum security. A dedicated courier personally accompanies the shipment on a scheduled flight and ensures that it remains in safe hands from pick-up to delivery. Unlike regular air freight shipments, which are transported in the hold, an OBC shipment is often carried as hand baggage or checked baggage with end-to-end supervision.
This solution offers a true door-to-door service, where the courier personally delivers the parcel to its final destination, avoiding unnecessary delays or handovers that could pose a security risk.
Why do companies choose OBC?
Companies from various industries are increasingly turning to On Board Courier Services because they offer unique advantages:
Maximum security & monitoring - A dedicated courier stays with the shipment around the clock, minimizing the risk of loss, theft or tampering.
Confidentiality & Compliance - Highly sensitive shipments, such as legal documents or valuable prototypes, are personally handled to ensure discretion and compliance with specific regulations.
Facilitating customs clearance - The courier personally handles customs clearance, ensuring smooth processing and reduced risk of delays or security issues.
Speed & Priority - OBC shipments have the highest priority. Couriers choose the fastest available flight routes without neglecting security measures.
Minimized handling risk - Unlike traditional shipping, where parcels are routed through multiple hubs, an OBC shipment undergoes minimal handling, significantly reducing the risk of damage or mishandling.
Typical areas of application for OBC services
On Board Courier solutions are used in various business critical scenarios including:
Automotive & Manufacturing - Critical spare parts to prevent production downtime.
Luxury & Fashion Industry - High-end jewelry, exclusive collections or secret prototypes that need to be transported safely.
Medical & Pharmaceutical - Life-saving drugs, diagnostic samples or transplant organs that need to remain under constant supervision.
Legal & Finance - Confidential contracts, court documents or financial instruments that require absolute discretion.
Technology & Innovation - Prototypes, high-value electronic components and semiconductor equipment that require secure transportation.
DHL Express Special Services - Your trusted OBC partner
At DHL Express Special Services, we know that certain shipments require more than just express delivery - they require absolute security and personalized attention. While DHL Express specializes in shipping parcels in the hold of an aircraft, our Special Services team can arrange On Board Courier solutions for businesses that require a more secure alternative.
Exclusively for B2B customers - OBC services are available exclusively for business customer requests to ensure professional handling and regulatory compliance.
Customized security solutions - We assess the urgency, value and security requirements of your shipment to find the best courier solution - with security as our top priority.
Global Network & Expertise - Thanks to our extensive logistics network and industry knowledge, we connect you with trusted OBC couriers worldwide who specialize in secure deliveries.
When security is critical and discretion is paramount, On Board Courier solutions provide the safest, most reliable and best controlled transportation option for your urgent shipments.
