Every year, the Vasaloppet cross-country skiing race attracts thousands of athletes and enthusiastic spectators from around the world to Sweden’s Dalarna province. Ensuring that all races take place as planned requires logistical expertise. As the event's official logistics partner, DHL Freight Sweden is responsible for this.
DHL Has Provided Smooth Vasaloppets for 15 Years
Since 2011, DHL has proudly served as the logistics partner of Vasaloppet, delivering all participants’ equipment to the right place at the right time.
During Vasaloppet Winter Week, 65 trucks transport around 80,000 bags and pieces of luggage. Freshly waxed skis await their owners in Sälen, ready for the start of the race. DHL also collects clothing bags before the race and delivers them to the right person at the finish line.
Vasaloppet
The Vasaloppet is the oldest, longest, and largest long-distance ski race in the world. But it is more than that. It is a Swedish institution. The first Vasaloppet took place in the Swedish province of Dalarna in 1922 to commemorate Gustav I Vasa’s escape from Danish soldiers on skis in 1521. The route between the towns of Sälen and Mora is around 90 kilometers long.
To date, more than 1.5 million skiers have crossed the finish line in Mora. However, the Vasaloppet is not just for professional ski marathoners competing in Worldloppet races. There are shorter distances starting at 9 kilometers for beginners and those who are a little rusty.
Each year, around 100,000 participants from over 60 countries gather in Dalarna for the Vasaloppet Winter Week. There is something for everyone, and the experience is what matters most. You can also participate in the Vasaloppet summer events on foot or by bike in August.
A Major Joint Effort for an Exciting Event
The 2026 Vasaloppet Winter Week began on February 20 and concluded on Sunday, March 1, with the 102nd Vasaloppet in the Worldloppet series. On Vasaloppet Sunday, DHL’s work reached its most intense phase. Twelve trucks operated simultaneously, handling approximately 20,000 bags in one day. Each bag has a designated spot in the process, from drop-off before the start to delivery after the finish.
Athletes and spectators should not even notice the logistics, only benefiting from it. When major events run smoothly, participants tend to take this for granted. In reality, however, it is the result of many years of experience and versatility.
Event logistics is a complex system. Even small changes from year to year can have a significant impact when large volumes are involved and time margins are small. It is often the details that make the difference, especially when the pace is fast and conditions change quickly.
Global Excellence and Local Expertise Intertwine
DHL combines global strength with local presence, working with local shipping companies. On all sides, planning begins long before the firts starting shot.
DHL Also Provides Entertainment and Refreshments
At the start, athletes not only receive their skis, but they are also welcomed by DHL with hot coffee in the DHL trailer at the starting line. Here, they can warm up and even send packages before the race begins — an extra logistical service. At a stopover shortly before the finish line, they can refresh themselves and enjoy music to cheer them on.
Together with DHL, we have built a system that is stable and well established. This enables us to deliver a high-quality Vasaloppet year after year.
Daniel Mäkinen
event manager at Vasaloppet
Sustainability and Major Events Can Coexist
DHL plays a key role in Vasaloppet’s environmental strategy. The trucks that transport equipment run on HVO (hydrated vegetable oil). They covered a total of 2,986 sustainable kilometers between Sälen and Mora.
Additionally, DHL supports Vasaloppet’s social sustainability initiatives by collaborating with approximately 700 volunteers from local associations. The volunteers' dedication during the competitions generates income for their associations.
Voluntary Commitment Secures the Vasaloppet
The success of the Vasaloppet is possible only thanks to the tremendous commitment of our employees, who hail from all areas of Sweden and all areas of the company. Many of them also support this event, which fosters community spirit, on a voluntary basis.
Many DHL employees also take part in the various Vasaloppet races, either individually or as part of a DHL team in the relay race. This once again highlights the enthusiasm of DHL Freight Sweden. We are proud to support the event as its official logistics partner.
The Vasaloppet is more important than ever. A passion for skiing, cycling, and running creates a sense of community and promotes public health. DHL shares these values and contributes to the overall experience by managing the event's logistics. This allows participants to focus on their race and make lifelong memories.
Lotta Karlstrand
Senior Project & Event Manager DHL Schweden
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