The logistics major cites rising operational costs and supply chain pressures; new customers signing up before year-end will be exempt
Blue Dart Express will raise its shipment rates by 9–12 per cent from 1 January 2026, citing inflationary pressures, rising airline costs, and supply chain complexities. The increase will vary depending on product type and customer shipping profiles.
Customers who sign up between 1 October and 31 December 2025 will be exempt from the price revision as part of a promotional measure.
“The General Price Increase enables us to continue investing in advanced technology, greener logistics, and network expansion, ensuring that our customers experience unmatched reliability and speed,” said Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart Express. He added that the exemption for new customers underscores the company’s commitment to supporting businesses “even amidst global challenges.”
Blue Dart, part of DHL Group’s e-commerce division, serves more than 56,400 locations in India and connects to over 220 global markets. The hike comes as the logistics sector grapples with higher freight costs through 2025, with air routes to Europe and Asia becoming costlier by 10–20 per cent due to conflicts in the Middle East. India’s logistics costs, at 7.8–8.9 per cent of GDP in 2021–22, remain above global averages.
The move aligns with broader industry trends. Rival Allcargo Gati has also announced a 10.2 per cent general price increase effective January 2026, underscoring the sector-wide effort to absorb rising operating costs. The express logistics market in India, valued at about USD 9 billion in FY25, continues to expand rapidly on the back of e-commerce growth and digital adoption.
Blue Dart is offering a three-month exemption window for customers onboarding between 1 October and 31 December 2025, allowing them to lock in current rates before the revision. The market reacted positively to the announcement with Blue Dart shares surging over 9 per cent to touch Rs 6,113.15, marking the steepest rally in six months.
