The simplest way is to send them a prepaid DHL shipping label by email or message so they can print it and stick it on the parcel, or show a QR code at a DHL drop-off point if their local DHL service supports that. DHL also offers label creation through its app, online portal, and service points, and in some regions the label can be printed on-site from a QR code instead of being printed at home.

How it usually works

  1. Create the shipment and enter the sender and recipient details.
  2. Pay for the postage or label.
  3. Send the label PDF or QR code to the person who will hand over the parcel.
  4. They print and attach the label, or present the QR code at a DHL location that can print it.
  5. They drop off the parcel or hand it to the courier.

Practical options

  • Email the PDF label: best if they have a printer.
  • Send the QR code: best if their DHL location can print the label on arrival.
  • Use a DHL app/portal: useful when the label is generated digitally and shared remotely.

What to include

Make sure the label includes the recipient address, your return address, and any customs paperwork if it’s an international shipment. DHL’s guidance also notes that if the outside label gets damaged, having the shipment info inside the parcel can help keep it moving.

Simple wording to send them

“Here’s the DHL shipping label for your parcel. Please print it and attach it to the box, or use the QR code at a DHL drop-off point if that option is available for your shipment.”

If you need, I can turn this into a short step-by-step message you can send directly to the other person.