DHL Invests $15 Million in Boston Dynamics Stretch Robots
DHL Supply Chain purchases a fleet of Stretch case-handling robots from Boston Dynamics to automate truck unloading across North American warehouses.
DHL Supply Chain commits $15 million to deploy a fleet of Boston Dynamics Stretch robots across its North American warehouses over the next three years. This purchase marks the first official customer deal for the Stretch case-handling robot, following years of collaborative testing and development between the two companies. The initial deployment focuses on automating truck unloading tasks at select DHL facilities.
Stretch evolves from Boston Dynamics' earlier Handle robot by replacing legs with an omni-directional mobile base equipped with four independently controlled wheels. The machine features a custom seven-degree-of-freedom robotic arm capable of lifting up to 50 pounds, a powerful onboard suction gripper, and an eight-hour battery that offers a 16-hour upgrade option. It also utilizes the Pick vision system, which relies on 2D and 3D cameras alongside machine learning to identify and handle a wide variety of boxes.
DHL executives emphasize that this investment supports the company's broader goals of digital transformation and operational efficiency. By utilizing flexible automation, DHL plans to replicate and scale this robotic solution regionally and globally. Boston Dynamics leadership highlights that Stretch specifically targets complex warehouse challenges, aiming to improve both safety and productivity for human associates working alongside the machines.