Under the deal DHL will be responsible for ticket distribution as well as the Rugby World Cup Limited and International Rugby Board's express shipments and international and domestic freight movements. This includes the delivery of competing teams' equipment.
Hundreds of movements will take place during the Tournament with an expected two to six tonnes of equipment per move. It is expected DHL trucks will drive a total of 30,000 kilometres over the course of the tournament.
"We are delighted to announce that DHL has joined the family of Worldwide Partners supporting Rugby World Cup 2011," said Bernard Lapasset, Rugby World Cup Limited chairman. "The appointment of a globally renowned brand and a world leader in the logistics industry further underscores Rugby World Cup's considerable global prestige and appeal.
"We look forward to working with DHL over the next 12 months to further the promotion of the Game around the world as the sporting community looks forward to Rugby World Cup 2011 in New Zealand. This is a Tournament that will write another memorable and successful chapter in the Rugby World Cup success story."
DHL has a strong heritage of supporting rugby union in New Zealand and in 2005 the company title sponsored the British and Irish Lions Series.
