Royal Mail, Evri, DPD, & more: which delivery company is right for your e-commerce business?

UK Delivery Companies – Are you struggling to choose the perfect delivery company for your e-commerce store? Well, your decision can make or break your business’s success. 

Did you know that a whopping 14% of customers abandon their checkout if they can’t select their preferred courier, and an additional 23% will switch to a competitor after a negative delivery experience?

Your choice of courier doesn’t just impact your day-to-day operations and costs, but also your conversion rates and customer loyalty. With so many options available in the UK, from Royal Mail to global giants like UPS and FedEx, the decision can be overwhelming.

But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll guide you through a detailed analysis of each courier, highlighting the top shipping methods and explaining why a multi-courier platform might just be the solution you need. 

Don’t miss out on this essential guide to ensure your business’s success!

We’ll discuss the following delivery companies:

• Shipping with Royal Mail
• Shipping with Evri
• Shipping with Yodel
• Shipping with DPD
• Shipping with DHL & DHL Express
• Shipping with FedEx
• Shipping with Parcelforce
• Shipping with UPS

Choosing the right delivery companies to meet customer expectations 

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the delivery companies, let’s talk about what you need to consider when choosing one. 

Of course, you’ll want to look at operational aspects like costs and services, but it’s equally important to think about what your customers expect from their delivery experience. After all, happy customers make for a successful business!

So if you’re tired of losing customers because of delivery issues, then don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. 

Here are some top tips to help you out:

• Don’t break the bank: No one likes to pay high delivery costs. In fact, it’s the number one reason why customers abandon their shopping carts and head to a competitor. So, make sure you find a strategy that keeps your delivery costs reasonable.
• Speed is key: Nowadays, customers expect their packages to arrive fast. In fact, most expect it within 3 days. So, make sure you choose a courier that can keep up with your customers’ demands.
• Keep track of your delivery: Customers want to know where their package is and when it’s going to arrive. That’s why tracking is essential. Plus, it gives customers the flexibility to change the time, date, or place of their delivery.
• Save the planet: More and more customers are concerned about the environmental impact of e-commerce. So, offering a CO2 neutral delivery option and recyclable packaging can go a long way in keeping your customers happy.

But that’s not all! If you want to dive deeper into the world of delivery, including checkout abandonment, returns, and the future of e-commerce, download the latest E-commerce Delivery Compass below. It’s your ultimate guide to understanding what your customers expect from their delivery experience.

Shipping with Royal Mail: 

Get ready to meet the favourite postal service of many Brits – Royal Mail! 

As the official postal service of the country, it’s no surprise that it was ranked as the top favourite in our 2023 consumer research. With over 5 centuries of experience under their belt, Royal Mail has definitely earned their reputation for excellence.

If you’re looking for a domestic delivery service, Royal Mail has got you covered. They offer a range of delivery options to fit your needs, from next day to standard delivery, with both tracked and untracked services available. With some prices that won’t break the bank, Royal Mail even has viable choices for the most budget-conscious business.

Popular delivery services from Royal Mail:

Delivery Service	Delivery Time	Weight Limit	Cost*
Royal Mail 24 and 48: These are popular non-tracked shipping methods great for e-commerce at very affordable rates.	1-3 business days	Up to 2kg for Royal Mail 48 and 20kg for Royal Mail 24	From £2.50 – £12.00 depending on the weight
Royal Mail Standard 1st and 2nd Class: A very affordable option, however there is no tracking or time guarantee for these delivery services.	1-3 business days	Up to 20kg for 1st Class Up to 1kg for 2nd Class	£3.75 – £42.00 depending on the weight
Royal Mail Tracked 24 and 48: A tracked delivery service with free collection and estimated day and time of delivery by SMS and/or email.	1-3 days. Includes Sunday parcel delivery with Tracked 24.	Up to 30kg	Royal Mail Tracked 24 and 48 is an account service and can only be accessed by sending a minimum of 1,000 parcels a year. Contact Royal Mail directly for a personal quote for this service.
Royal Mail Local Collect: Local Collect gives online shoppers the choice to have their parcel delivered to one of Royal Mail’s pick-up locations so they can collect it at a time that suits them. Available to use with the delivery services: Royal Mail Tracked 24 and 48 and Special Delivery Guaranteed.	Dependent on delivery service shipped with	Up to 20kg	You pay no additional fee, just the normal cost of the service being used: Royal Mail Tracked 24 and 48 or Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed.

*Please note, the shipping rates are provided as an indication sourced from Royal Mail’s Business Price Guide at the time of writing. They are not a statement of fact and are subject to change based on Royal Mail’s current rates, or whether you directly negotiate a contract with the delivery company. 

Is Royal Mail right for your business? 

If you’re wondering whether Royal Mail or another courier is the best choice for your shipping needs, then here are some key factors to consider:

When to choose Royal Mail:

• Low shipping volume: If your business doesn’t ship large volumes of goods, Royal Mail offers cost-effective solutions that won’t break the bank. Perfect for small businesses starting out or those that don’t ship many packages.
• Diverse customer base: With an extensive delivery network that covers almost every corner of the UK, Royal Mail is a reliable option for businesses that serve customers throughout the country, even those in remote areas.
• Offering trust: As the nation’s favourite, having Royal Mail in your arsenal can never hurt as it is the customer-favourite and is trusted by many.
• Lightweight items: If you’re shipping small, lightweight items like books, cosmetics, or apparel, Royal Mail is well-suited for the job. 

When to choose a different courier:

• High-value items: For shipping high-value items like jewellery or electronics, a different courier may include better insurance cover for ease-of-mind. Some delivery companies offer additional security and tracking options as well to ensure the safe delivery of valuable packages.
• Time-sensitive deliveries: If your business needs to deliver packages quickly, another courier may provide more time-sensitive delivery options with better pricing than Royal Mail. 
• Tracking: Tracking is only included in Royal Mail’s more premium services. If you want a cheaper, standard delivery option that includes tracking, it might be good to consider another delivery company. 
• Large or bulky items: If you’re shipping large or bulky items, a different delivery company may be better equipped to handle these deliveries, as well as offer better rates, as Royal Mail can get pretty pricey for larger or heavier packages. 
• International shipping: Naturally, Royal Mail’s area of expertise is delivery within the UK. They do offer international delivery for parcels up to *2kg in weight, but they can take between 3 to 15 days depending on the country destination. For a wider range of international services, they team up with Parcelforce.

Shipping with Evri:

Rebranded from Hermes, Evri declares itself the leading specialist parcel delivery firm in the UK, catering to anyone who needs to send a parcel with their 7-day delivery service. Counting big-brand names such as ASOS, Next, and John Lewis amongst their clients, Evri is the go-to choice for major players in the industry.

But, it’s not just the big guys that love Evri! With their Consumer to Consumer (C2C) shipping services, Evri also caters to small or independent businesses that operate from home with lower shipping volumes, providing an affordable and reliable option.

Popular delivery services from Evri: 

Delivery Service	Delivery Time	Weight Limit	Cost*
Evri Next Day: An incredibly affordable option for express delivery for packages up to 15kg.	Next business day	Up to 15kg	Starting from £3.41
Evri Locker Delivery: With over 1,500 lockers across the UK, these allow customers to collect and return packages 24/7 at their own convenience.	2-3 business days	Up to 15kg	Starting from £2.85
Evri C2C Parcel Shop to Address Two Day: If you’re a small business and ship low volumes, Evri’s C2C Parcel Shop delivery is a great and affordable option, and also available for next-day delivery.	2-3 business days	Up to 15kg	Starting from £3.30

*Prices indicated are Sendcloud’s exclusive rates with Evri and are only accessible to Sendcloud users. The prices are subject to discount and if you would like to know more about the personal rates your business could access, please contact us for more information. 

Is Evri right for your business? 

You may be wondering if you should use Evri, the UK’s biggest dedicated parcel delivery company, or a courier service. Here’s what you need to know:

Businesses that may benefit from using Evri:

• Small to medium-sized businesses with low to moderate shipping volumes: Save money with Evri’s cost-effective C2C solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses.
• High volume businesses that ship low-value goods: This could include items like books, electric device accessories, cosmetics, and other such small items. It is a great, cost-effective service. 
• Businesses that require flexibility in package size and weight: Evri offers a flat rate for packages between 2 to 15kg in weight, making it incredibly affordable. 
• Businesses that want to offer their customers a range of delivery options: Provide your customers with convenience by offering them various delivery locations and tracking options, including Locker and Pick-up delivery services. 
• Businesses that require good tracking options: All of Evri’s delivery services include tracking.

Situations where a different courier service may be more appropriate:

• High-value items: If your goods are high-value, another courier may be a better choice with additional insurance, security and tracking options.
• Large or bulky items: Although Evri offers a flat rate for up to 15KG, heavier or larger items may be cheaper to ship with another delivery company, and it is good to research your options to make sure you’re not over-paying. 
• International delivery: Just like Royal Mail, Evri’s focus is deliveries within the UK. The courier does offer some very affordable options for international deliveries, working with local partners in 190+ countries to get packages delivered, but we wouldn’t advise it for a large-scale international logistics strategy. It’s a great affordable option if you’re just sending a few packages abroad every now and then. 

Royal Mail vs Evri: Which delivery company is better? 

As two of the most popular delivery companies in the country, particularly for e-commerce companies and parcel delivery, we’ve created an in-depth comparison guide to break down all the pros and cons of Evri vs Royal Mail. Make sure to check out our complete blog: Evri vs Royal Mail. 

Shipping with Yodel:

Yodel may not be the most familiar name on a global level, but it certainly knows how to deliver within the UK. Focusing solely on domestic deliveries across the entire UK, Yodel has made a name for itself in various industries including fashion, leisure, health and beauty, electronics and more.

From their two-hour delivery windows to inflight delivery updates and branded communications, they strive to ensure the end customer gets the best delivery experience possible.

But Yodel’s services aren’t just limited to big businesses. SMEs and marketplace sellers can also benefit from Yodel’s services through their Yodel Direct, which offers a great parcel service that can help smaller businesses compete with larger ones.

Popular services from Yodel: 

Delivery Service	Delivery Time	Weight Limit	Cost*
Yodel Expect: Provides customers with a two-hour delivery window notification and the flexibility for customers to choose when their delivery will happen.	Next day – Two day delivery	Up to 30kg	Contact Yodel directly for more information on shipping rates.
Yodel Xpress: Get your packages to your customers within 24 or 48 hours with this service.	Next day – Two day delivery	Up to 17kg	Contact Yodel directly for more information on shipping rates.
Click & Collect: With thousands of Collect+ Points, packages can be delivered to a pickup location where the customer can collect their parcel at a convenient time for them.	Next day – Two day delivery	Up to 10kg	Contact Yodel directly for more information on shipping rates.

Is Yodel right for your business? 

Here’s a list of businesses that might benefit from using Yodel:

Businesses that should consider using Yodel:

• Those that need affordable and reliable delivery services across the UK
• Those with a high volume of deliveries and need flexibility with delivery options and timeframes
• Those that require integration with e-commerce platforms such as eBay and Amazon
• Those that require additional services such as parcel collection and return services

Businesses that may not find Yodel the best fit:

• Those that require international shipping services
• Those that prioritise high-end, premium shipping options
• Those that need specialised services such as temperature-controlled or hazardous goods shipping

Shipping with DPD

DPD isn’t just a big deal in Europe – they’re also one of the top delivery companies in the UK! Known for their massive delivery network, DPD is a top choice for businesses that need to ship parcels all over Europe and beyond.

But that’s not all. In 2019, DPD launched their myDPD app, which gives customers even more control and flexibility over their deliveries. With real-time tracking through DPD Predict, customers can stay on top of their parcel’s location every step of the way. Plus, they can choose the exact date and time for delivery, making it easier than ever to get parcels exactly when and where they need them.

The difference between DPD and DPD Local

Hold up! Before you hit that “ship” button, let’s clear something up. DPD and DPD Local may sound similar, but they are two different beasts. Think of DPD as the big dog, with the largest parcel delivery network in Europe and top-notch courier services. 

On the other hand, DPD Local is more like the cute puppy, still part of the same DPDgroup but providing more localised services within the UK and is better suited for businesses that ship lower volumes. So, if you’re a small business, maybe go for the cute puppy. But if you’re a big player with more substantial shipping needs, stick with the big dog.

Popular DPD delivery services: 

Delivery Service	Delivery Time	Weight Limit	Cost*
DPD Next Day Delivery: For packages you want to get to your customers by the next working day, with an option of guaranteed delivery by 10.30am or 12.00pm.	Next business day delivery by 10.30 or 12.00	Up to 30kg	Starting from £7.08
DPD Shop Return: A great return solution, let your customers bring their return packages to one of DPD’s Pickup locations at their own convenience. Includes tracking to keep an eye on the package’s transit back to you.	N/A	Up to 20kg	£6.24
DPD ExpressPak Next Day – International Shipments to EU: Ship packages with next-day delivery to EU countries, including weekend delivery.	Next business day delivery	Up to 5kg	£6.24

*Prices indicated are Sendcloud’s exclusive rates with Evri and are only accessible to Sendcloud users. The prices are subject to discount and if you would like to know more about the personal rates your business could access, please contact us for more information. 

Is DPD right for your business? 

Here are some of the areas where DPD may be the perfect match for your shipping needs:

• Need fast and reliable delivery options? DPD has got you covered. They offer next-day delivery, time-specific delivery windows, and real-time tracking to ensure speedy and reliable delivery.
• Got some bulky or hefty items to ship? DPD has higher restrictions on the weight or size of your parcels, making it a great option for businesses that need to ship large or heavy items.
• Shipping globally? DPD offers international shipping options to over 230 countries, and especially has a strong network throughout Europe, so you can rest easy knowing your packages are making their way around the world.
• Want to give your customers a flexible and convenient delivery experience? DPD offers a variety of delivery options, including safe place delivery, neighbour delivery, and parcel shop delivery, so your customers can receive their packages in the way that suits them best. Not to mention, their powerful app – myDPD – allows customers flexibility and customisation for their delivery. 

However, keep in mind that there are some situations where DPD may not be the best fit for your business, such as:

• If you have low shipping volumes, DPD’s pricing may not be as competitive as other delivery companies. 
• If you require highly customised delivery options, DPD’s offerings may be too limited for your needs.
• If cost-effective shipping options are a top priority for your business, DPD’s focus on fast and reliable delivery may come at a higher cost than other delivery companies.

Shipping with DHL Parcel

DHL is not only a leading delivery specialist in the UK, but also a global leader in delivery with a vast international network of over 220 countries and half a million employees worldwide.

DHL’s customer-centric services offer a range of flexibility and convenience, making it a strong choice for businesses looking to provide an exceptional delivery experience to their customers. With unparalleled returns and the ability to change delivery locations and times on the go, DHL’s services are designed to meet the needs of businesses that value flexibility and customer satisfaction.

Popular DHL delivery services: 

DHL Parcel XS/Small/Medium/Large/XL/XXL

DHL Parcel is home delivery within 24 to 48 hours. The service is the same, but is split into 6 different size and weight categories ranging from XS to XXL. 

• Delivery time: 24 – 48 hours
• Weight: XS = Max 2kg. S = Max 5kg. M = Max 10kg. L = Max 15kg. XL = Max 20kg. XXL = Max 25kg. 
• Cost: Varies per category. It’s best to contact DHL Parcel directly for accurate rates.  

International delivery with DHL 

DHL offers 4 international delivery services: DHL Parcel Connect, DHL Parcel International, Road Economy Delivery, and Worldwide Air Delivery. 

Prices can vary greatly depending on the size and destination of the package. We suggest contacting DHL directly to discuss shipping rates based on the volume of packages you ship and their general weight and size. 

DHL Express vs DHL Parcel

Hold onto your hats, e-commerce retailers, because it’s time for a showdown between DHL Express and DHL Parcel! These two brands are both part of the global DHL Group, but they have some key differences.

DHL Express	DHL Parcel
Guaranteed next-morning domestic deliveries for UK shipments	Guaranteed next-day delivery for UK shipments (before the end of the day)
Ship from the UK to anywhere in the world (220+ countries); guaranteed express delivery options available for 84 countries	Ship from the UK to anywhere in Europe
Fast, reliable solution for urgent domestic and global shipping	Great for domestic and European shipping when delivery is less urgent
Maximum individual parcel weight allowed: 70 kg	Maximum individual parcel weight allowed: 25 kg
Maximum individual parcel dimensions allowed: 120 x 80 x 80 cm	Maximum individual parcel dimensions allowed: 70 x 70 x 70 cm
Pallet shipments are possible under DHL Express Worldwide and DHL Economy Select services	Pallet shipments are possible within Europe
Maximum pallet weight allowed: 300 kg (DHL Express Worldwide) and 1,000 kg (DHL Economy Select)	Maximum pallet weight allowed: customisable options available

Is DHL right for your business? 

Here are some areas where DHL could be a great match for your e-commerce business:

• Fast and reliable international shipping: DHL’s expertise in global shipping and extensive network make it an ideal choice for businesses that need to ship goods across borders quickly and reliably.
• Delivery flexibility and control: DHL offers great flexibility to the customer, allowing them to control the time, place, and day of the delivery, even once the package is out for delivery. 
• Customs expertise: DHL has extensive experience in customs clearance, and can help your business navigate the complexities of international customs requirements.

However, DHL may not be the best choice for your business if:

• Your shipping volumes are low: DHL’s pricing may not be as competitive for businesses with low shipping volumes.
• You require domestic shipping only: Although DHL offers domestic shipping options, its expertise and focus are primarily on international shipping.
• You require cost-effective shipping options: DHL’s focus on fast and reliable delivery services may come at a higher cost than other delivery companies, which may not be suitable for businesses that require cost-effective shipping options.

Shipping with FedEx 

Probably more recognisable in the States, FedEx isn’t a courier to be pushed aside. As a world leader in delivery services and a global network of 220 countries, the courier is definitely one to consider. 

And let’s not forget about their acquisition of TNT in 2016, which significantly beefed up their European network. With FedEx, you can expect premium express delivery that’s fast and reliable – perfect for getting your goods to your customers in record time.

Popular delivery services from FedEx: 

Delivery Service	Delivery Time	Weight Limit	Cost
FedEx Standard: A reliable domestic delivery of parcels within the UK, with next-day guaranteed delivery by 09.00, 10.00, or 12.00, including Saturday as well.	Next day delivery	Up to 50kg	FedEx rates vary greatly depending on specific location and service, as well as volumes shipped. We advise contacting them directly for accurate rates to your circumstances.
FedEx International Connect Plus: A door-to-door, customs-cleared, day-definite delivery service specifically designed for e-commerce. Reach your customers in Europe within 1-4 days, the US in 3 days, and the rest of the world in 3-5 days.	1-5 days, depending on destination	Up to 32kg	FedEx rates vary greatly depending on specific location and service, as well as volumes shipped. We advise contacting them directly for accurate rates to your circumstances.
FedEx International Economy: A more accessible international shipping method that delivers parcels in 2-3 days.	2-3 days	Up to 68kg	FedEx rates vary greatly depending on specific location and service, as well as volumes shipped. We advise contacting them directly for accurate rates to your circumstances.

International delivery with FedEx 

Being a global leader with an express network across the globe, including a fleet of aeroplanes and a large road network, FedEx is without a doubt a leader in international delivery, assuring fast and reliable delivery of your products.

Of course, this added assurance of delivery and services comes with higher rates due to its premium services. 

Is FedEx right for your business? 

FedEx shipping services will suit e-commerce retailers who:

• Send large or heavy packages on a regular basis.
• Send high volumes and want to control costs (preferential rates can be negotiated).
• Send packages with sensitive or expensive contents.
• Need robust insurance cover.
• Don’t require free pickup services.
• Might require support when sending packages overseas (FedEx offers a tool which helps less experienced retailers navigate processes).
• Require powerful, accurate tracking.

Pros of shipping with FedEx	Cons of shipping with FedEx
Excellent worldwide coverage.	Not as many options for parcel pickup as some other UK delivery companies.
Prices on higher volumes are negotiable.	No free package pickup services.
Good tracking capabilities.	Some services are more expensive, compared to other UK delivery companies.
Good standard of personal customer service.	Limited free packaging available.
Comprehensive insurance is available.

Shipping with Parcelforce: 

Parcelforce might not be as well known as other delivery companies, but it’s a longstanding worldwide courier and even a trading name of the well-recognised Royal Mail. Although they also offer domestic delivery, Parcelforce also delivers to destinations worldwide with a network of international postal service partners. 

Popular services from Parcelforce:

Delivery Service	Delivery Time	Weight Limit	Cost*
Parcelforce Express 24 0-30kg: For those packages you want to get to your customers quickly, but also a great option if you ship heavier items.	By the end of the next business day	Up to 30kg	Starting from £6.23
Parcelforce Euro Economy: A Europe-wide economy service for reliable parcel delivery. Parcels are shipped via a trusted network of partner postal carriers. Services available include Drop-off and Pick-up.	Within 2 business days	Up to 32kg	Prices vary per destination. European prices generally start from £14.55
Parcelforce Global Priority: If you’re shipping to worldwide destinations further afield than our European neighbours, Parcelforce’s Global Priority provides a combination of both speedy delivery and value for money.	Starting from 3 working days to Europe and other major destinations.	Up to 30kg	Prices vary greatly per destination. It’s best to contact us directly for more information.

*Prices indicated are Sendcloud’s exclusive rates with Parcelforce and are only accessible to Sendcloud users. The prices are subject to discount and if you would like to know more about the personal rates your business could access, please contact us for more information. 

Is Parcelforce right for your business? 

Here is a list of key areas where Parcelforce may be a good fit for an e-commerce business:

• Businesses that require time-guaranteed delivery: Parcelforce offers several time-guaranteed delivery services to make sure your packages are delivered within a certain time frame. 
• Businesses that ship heavier packages: With a weight limit up to 30kg, Parcelforce offers the opportunity to ship heavier packages. This is especially helpful if you wish to combine the services with Royal Mail’s 48 or 2nd Class service. 
• Businesses that require international shipping: This is especially true if you want to combine with Royal Mail services as Parcelforce pairs with the national delivery company to offer international shipping options to over 240 countries. Note that Parcelforce works with a network of courier partners in the destinations of delivery for the last-mile delivery.
• Businesses that require specialist services: Parcelforce offers specialist services such as temperature-controlled shipping and hazardous goods shipping, making it a good option for businesses that need to ship goods that require specific conditions or regulations.

However, there are some situations where Parcelforce may not be the best choice for a business, including:

• Businesses that require cost-effective shipping options: Parcelforce’s focus on fast and reliable delivery services may come at a higher cost than other delivery companies, making it less suitable for businesses that require cost-effective shipping options.
• Businesses with low shipping volumes: Parcelforce’s pricing may not be as competitive for businesses with low shipping volumes.
• Businesses that require a strong focus on sustainability: While Parcelforce has made some efforts towards sustainability, it may not be the best option for businesses that prioritise sustainability in their operations.

Shipping with UPS:

UPS is a prominent player in the global shipping industry with a strong reputation. With connections to over 220 countries and a variety of transportation modes including road, rail, air, and sea, UPS is a versatile shipping provider that you’re likely familiar with thanks to their iconic brown delivery vans.

If you need guaranteed express shipping, UPS is an excellent choice, especially for heavier items or when you want to provide a higher level of flexibility and premium service to your customers.

Popular services from UPS 

Delivery Service	Delivery Time	Weight Limit	Cost*
UPS Standard: A standard shipping option that includes one delivery attempt before the package is sent to a service point. Additional services like Saturday delivery, Adult Signature and Multipiece delivery are available.	Normally arrives within 1 day to mainland UK locations, and takes between 1-3 days for European destinations.	Up to 70kg	Starting from £6.78 for GB. Prices vary for different destinations and weights.
UPS Standard to Access Point: The same service, just the delivery goes directly to one of UPS’s access points.	Normally arrives within 1 day to mainland UK locations, and takes between 1-3 days for European destinations	Up to 20kg	Starting from £6.78 for GB. Prices vary for different destinations and weights.
UPS Express Saver: Offering a more economical option than UPS’s Express service, Express Saver doesn’t compromise on delivering by the end of the next business day.	Delivery is anywhere between 1 – 5 days, depending on the destination	Up to 70kg	Starting from £8.75 – £11.27 for GB. Prices vary for different destinations and weights.

*Prices indicated are Sendcloud’s exclusive rates with UPS and are only accessible to Sendcloud users. The prices are subject to discount and if you would like to know more about the personal rates your business could access, please contact us for more information. 

Is UPS right for your business? 

UPS shipping services should suit e-commerce retailers who:

• Mostly send small packages.
• Usually send smaller packages to international locations (larger parcels can incur surcharges).
• Would like a choice of time-sensitive delivery services.
• Require accurate real-time tracking.
• Would benefit from a choice of parcel drop-offs and pickups.
• Would like to subscribe for regular parcel pickup services.

Pros of shipping with UPS	Cons of shipping with UPS
Comprehensive global network.	For a number of key services, the costs for shipping and packaging are a lot higher than other delivery companies.
Multiple types of transport available.	Additional fees and surcharges apply on heavier packages, particularly international shipments.
Good range of shipping options including time-sensitive deliveries.	No free pick-up services on offer.
Good experience managing a variety of shipment types.	No delivery on Saturday with some services.
Good range of options available for parcel drop-offs and pickups.
Excellent tracking capabilities.

DHL vs FedEx vs UPS

Let’s take a look at these three delivery companies and see what they have to offer! Here’s the scoop:

• FedEx: Need something shipped overnight in the UK? FedEx is your go-to. Plus, their iconic vans are hard to miss!
• DHL: Looking for flexible, customer-centric delivery that won’t break the bank? DHL’s got you covered. They may not be as fast as FedEx, but they make up for it in affordability.
• UPS: If you’re shipping to the US, UPS is your best bet. They’ve got a well-established network that can get your goods where they need to go.

But that’s not all! Each courier has its own strengths and weaknesses. Check it out:

• Pricing: DHL and UPS are pretty evenly matched in the pricing department, but of course it all depends on where you’re shipping from and to.
• Integrations: If you’re an e-commerce retailer, you might want to go with UPS or DHL since they offer integrations with e-commerce platforms and also more commonly connect with various shipping softwares. 
• Signature and tracking: All three delivery companies offer solid signature and tracking services, with DHL offering accessible and easy flexibility for the customer to rearrange their delivery, even on the go.
• Environmental impact: If you’re an environmentally-conscious retailer, DHL is the way to go. They have a strong record of reducing carbon emissions, especially when it comes to international shipping.

So there you have it! Each courier has its own unique offerings, so choose the one that fits your needs best.

Which delivery companies match your business goals and customers’ expectations? 

Delivering packages can be a tricky business, especially when customers are so particular about their delivery company of choice. Luckily, there’s a solution: a multi-courier strategy. 

Check out some of the benefits of implementing a multi-courier strategy:

• Save money by combining the cheapest shipping solutions for different situations. Whether you’re shipping heavy packages or sending to multiple locations, there isn’t a courier out there that’s perfect for all the different types of shipments you send out. That’s where the power of combining delivery companies comes into play where you can pick the best (and cheapest) options for each situation. 
• Be less dependent on one courier. If a delivery company is experiencing delays or strikes, you can easily switch to another company without any disruptions to your business.
• Give customers freedom to pick the delivery company they know and trust. After all, one bad experience with a courier can be a deal-breaker for some shoppers.
• Offer the shipping services customers crave. For those in a rush, express delivery is a must-have. For those on-the-go, collection from a Pick-Up point is a godsend. By mixing and matching delivery companies, you can cater to all of your customers’ needs.

Getting started with a multi-courier strategy

If you’re convinced that shipping with multiple delivery companies is a must for you in 2023, shipping software is essential and will help you to simplify the process. 

With the right platform, integrating delivery companies into your e-commerce store can be easily done with just a few clicks. Then you can manage orders from multiple e-commerce channels for different delivery companies from just a single platform, making your day-to-day process more efficient.

If you’re interested in learning more about implementing a multi-courier strategy through a shipping software like Sendcloud, make sure to get in touch to discuss what’s possible.