Compare Cheap Quotes for Reliable UK Courier Services

Find Rated Couriers for Large Items, Next-Day, and Same-Day Delivery

If you want to send a package quickly and efficiently, a courier service is a great option. Couriers offer an ideal service for large or heavy items that are too big for standard parcel delivery, but not big enough for large logistical firms; they offer a cheap delivery service throughout the UK and a range of delivery options including next day and even same day delivery.

Advantages of Using a Dedicated Courier Service

As with most delivery networks there are both advantages and disadvantages of using courier services, and understanding the benefits and limits of the network will help you choose the right service.

One of the main advantages to using a courier service is that there is less risk of the package being lost or damaged. When sending a package through the traditional parcel delivery network the item can be handled up to ten times before being delivered to the recipient; this increases the risk of damage or loss, but because a courier service is comprised of a dedicated network your package will be collected and delivered with minimum handling.

Couriers also offer a range of options when it comes to collection dates and times, meaning that you can schedule a collection at a time and place that suits you.

There is one disadvantage to using a courier service and that’s the price. Courier services are usually more expensive than standard parcel delivery, but using our site you can find competitive quotes from the leading courier services in a matter of minutes, not to mention the peace of mind that a courier service has over standard parcel delivery.

Choosing Your Speed: Economy vs. Express Courier

An economy service is the cheapest option when using a courier company, although it has to be noted that there will be a degree of flexibility when it comes to collection and delivery of the package. The economy service is designed to take into consideration the couriers existing delivery schedule and pre-planned route; this is reflected in the cheaper price but means that the package may take longer to get to its destination. An economy delivery service is great for those who want the peace of mind of a courier service but don’t need an urgent delivery.

Express Services: Next Day and Same-Day Couriers

For those who require an urgent delivery, the express service is the perfect option. You can choose between next day delivery or same-day delivery depending on how quickly you need the package delivered. This is a more dedicated service compared with an economy service and thus is more expensive, but if you need to get an item to someone in a hurry then this is the option for you.

Packaging Requirements for UK & Large Item Couriers

When sending any package through the postal network it is important to make sure that it is packaged well. A sturdy box, some brown tape and packing such as bubble wrap or packing paper are essential to keeping all of the items safe during transit.

For large item courier deliveries such as furniture, garden equipment, bicycles or an eBay delivery it is recommended that you speak to the courier service first. They can advise you on how to pack the items or can supply a packing blanket or strapping to keep your items protected during transportation.

Courier Companies, Insurance, and Goods in Transit

All specialist courier services will have Goods in Transit insurance to protect their cargo, as well as the relevant vehicle insurance. It is a good idea to check what level of cover is offered by the courier company and that it is sufficient to cover the goods that you want transported. Courier companies who do not have Goods in Transit insurance should be avoided as any damage will not be covered by vehicle insurance alone.

All of the courier services that use our site are required to list the level of insurance cover they provide, so checking out each of your quotes thoroughly is a good idea to stop any heartache down the line. Some courier services will increase their level of insurance if an item is expensive, although there will be a small additional fee for this service.

Protecting Your Claim: Signing for the Courier Delivery

A courier’s responsibility for an item begins when they collect an item and ends when the item is delivered and signed for, so it is imperative that the recipient checks the goods are not damaged before signing. Insurance claims for damages to goods will not be accepted after the goods have been signed for. If any damage is seen do not sign for the goods and contact the courier company straight away. If you are sending an item you can also protect yourself by taking a photo of the goods before they were sent.

Specialised and International Courier Services

As noted above there are a range of different options when sending a package with a courier. For urgent deliveries or high value items it is recommended that you use next day or same-day services as these provide a quick and reliable service. For items that are not urgent but still need the peace of mind that a courier offers then an economy service is recommended.

If you are looking to ship items abroad you'll need to use specialist international couriers rather than domestic services; likewise for European couriers. When sending an item abroad via a courier there are some size and weight restrictions that must be adhered to.

If you want an item delivered in the local area then hiring a local courier service is the most cost-effective way. Local courier services are often cheaper than national companies because the distance is shorter.

Courier Service Costs and Price Comparison

Depending on what type of item you are sending and your individual requirements the price of shipping can vary dramatically. Other considerations also affect the price including the distance between the collection point and delivery address, the size and weight of the item and the value of the item. Whether you choose an economy service or express service will also affect the price.

At DeliveryQuoteCompare.com we compare thousands of courier prices online with a click of a button. This not only saves you time searching for individual quotes, but also provides you with the best prices and services available according to the type of courier jobs you need fulfilling.

Arranging Your Courier Collection and Payment

It is recommended that you check with a courier when they would be able to collect the item before accepting a quote. Our website allows you to list when the best time for collection would be as well as a delivery date; this makes for more accurate quotes and a cheaper price. Once you’re happy that you have found the courier you want to use simply click the ‘accept bid’ button and pay the small booking fee to book their services.

❓ FAQ for UK Courier Services

1. Q: What is the main difference between an Economy Courier Service and an Express Service?

• A: The main difference is speed and price. An Economy Service is the cheapest option and offers flexibility for the courier to fit your parcel into their existing route, meaning longer delivery times. An Express Service is more dedicated, offering next-day delivery or even same-day delivery for urgent shipments, making it faster but typically more expensive.

2. Q: Is my parcel insured when using a dedicated courier service?

• A: Yes. All professional UK courier companies are required to carry Goods in Transit insurance to protect the items they transport. You should always confirm the exact level of cover provided by your chosen courier, as some high-value or large items may require a small additional fee to increase the insurance level to match the item's value.

3. Q: Can I use your service to send large or heavy items that are too big for Royal Mail?

• A: Absolutely. Our platform specializes in finding couriers for large item delivery and heavy parcels that exceed the limits of standard postal networks. Our partners operate vehicles suitable for furniture, machinery, bikes, and other bulky items, providing the necessary handling and support like tail-lift vehicles.

4. Q: How does the "reverse auction" system help me get cheap quotes?

• A: Our reverse auction system creates competition among our network of rated courier companies. After you submit your request, couriers can see the quotes posted by competitors and often lower their price to win your business. This mechanism ensures you receive the best and cheapest available quote for your specific courier job.

5. Q: Do you offer international or European courier services?

• A: Yes, we connect you with specialist international couriers who handle customs paperwork and worldwide logistics. Whether you need a simple parcel sent to Europe or complex freight forwarding to another continent, we have European courier partners ready to provide reliable and compliant services.

Courier Services Related Links

• European couriers
• International couriers
• Parcel delivery
• eBay delivery
• Large item courier