Is this delivery text from DHL a scam?
Fake parcel-delivery notices are one of the most common scams in Australia, and DHL is among the most impersonated couriers. A delivery notice, text or email that looks like it's from DHL can be genuine — but it can just as easily be a scam built to look identical. The good news: a few quick checks almost always tell a real DHL message from a fake.
Genuine DHL links only ever go to dhl.com, dhlexpress.com. Below is exactly what a real DHL message looks like, the scams currently circulating in its name, the red flags that give a fake away, and a real example to compare against. Got a message in front of you? Check it now for an instant verdict.
What a real DHL message looks like
Genuine messages from DHL only ever link to dhl.com, dhlexpress.com.
- Genuine DHL delivery updates and tracking notices are sent from dhl.com or dhlexpress.com domains only
- DHL never requests payment of customs or import fees via SMS or email links
- Any fee or duty is presented inside the recipient's secure account on the official DHL portal at dhl.com
- DHL Express Australia notifications about delivery changes or pickup times come through the official app or logged-in web portal
- DHL does not send SMS from random short codes or long international numbers asking you to click a link
Crucially, DHL will never ask you to pay a small 'redelivery', 'customs' or 'handling' fee through a link in a text message.
Common DHL scams
- SMS claiming a DHL parcel is held at the border and that you must pay a customs fee immediately by clicking a link
- Messages pretending to be from DHL Express Australia that direct recipients to a fake site to “reschedule” a missed delivery
- Emails or texts warning that a package will be returned unless you verify your details on a lookalike DHL-branded page
- Scam texts using Australian mobile numbers that reference a specific tracking number and urge urgent action to release the parcel
Red flags to watch for
- Any SMS or email that asks you to pay customs or redelivery fees by clicking a link
- A sender address or domain that is not exactly dhl.com or dhlexpress.com
- Urgent language stating the parcel will be returned or destroyed if you do not act now
- A link that leads to a domain such as dhl-redelivery.net or dhlexpress-secure.com instead of the real DHL site
- Requests for credit-card details or personal ID outside the logged-in dhl.com consignee portal
Scam text examples
Here's a real example of a scam message impersonating DHL, with the tell-tale red flags highlighted. Compare it against anything you've received.
DHL: Your parcel is on hold for unpaid import fees. Pay AUD 18.40 now to release: https://dhl-express-redelivery.net/track
What gives it away:
- Any SMS or email that asks you to pay customs or redelivery fees by clicking a link
- A sender address or domain that is not exactly dhl.com or dhlexpress.com
- Urgent language stating the parcel will be returned or destroyed if you do not act now
- A link that leads to a domain such as dhl-redelivery.net or dhlexpress-secure.com instead of the real DHL site
- Requests for credit-card details or personal ID outside the logged-in dhl.com consignee portal
Not sure about your message?
Paste the suspicious DHL text or email and get an instant scam verdict, free.
How to verify a message from DHL
- Log in at dhl.com or dhlexpress.com using the tracking number on your shipping label
- Use the official DHL Express app downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play
- Type dhl.com directly into your browser rather than clicking any link in a message
Where to report a scam impersonating DHL
Received — or fell for — a message impersonating DHL? Report it. It helps authorities and carriers shut the campaign down for everyone who gets the next one.
- Scamwatch — Report the scam to the ACCC's national scam service.
- ReportCyber — Report cybercrime and financial loss to the police.
- ACMA — Report scam texts and spam SMS or calls.
- Forward to 7226 (SPAM) — Forward the scam SMS to short code 7226 so your carrier can block the source.
- IDCARE — Free identity and cyber support if your details were taken.
Frequently asked questions
I got a text from DHL with a link asking me to pay customs fees — is it a scam?
Yes. DHL never collects import fees or duties by SMS link; any genuine charges appear only after you log into your account at dhl.com.
How do I know if a DHL delivery message is real?
Check that it comes from dhl.com or dhlexpress.com and never asks you to pay or enter card details through a link. Log in directly at dhl.com to view the shipment.
What should I do if I clicked a suspicious DHL link?
Disconnect from the internet, run a malware scan, and monitor your accounts. Report the message at scamwatch.gov.au and cyber.gov.au.
DHL scam text Australia — what do I report?
Forward the SMS to 7226 and lodge details at scamwatch.gov.au so authorities can track the campaign.
Related scam types
Scams impersonating DHL usually fit one of these patterns. Learn how each works:
Related brands
Other courier names scammers impersonate — check a message from one:
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — always verify with DHL through an official channel.