Sending a Parcel is the Cheap and Easy solution for a lot of courier needs. A parcel delivery is a network service where your parcel is collected from your specified premises, sorted through a hub network system, and then delivered usually on a next day service. It’s a very efficient and affordable solution suitable for the majority of people sending small packages as long as they are fully boxed and packaged, and the contents are suitable.
Here at uShip, we are working with Parcel2go as our chosen Parcel Partner. Parcel2go are the UK’s largest online parcel reseller, offering parcel deliveries with DHL, HDNL, Parcelforce, and Citylink. Sending over 1.8 million parcels a year, and with 98% of customers recommending them.
Use our checklist to make sure that your item is suitable for parcel delivery?
Your parcel fits within the standard parcel delivery dimensions or weight.Your parcel is properly boxed and packaged, suitable for a network system conveyor hub (i.e no plastic bags, loose ends etc).Your item contents are appropriate for the parcel networks.How do parcel deliveries work – How do I know if my items are suitable?
A parcel goes through a network. Standard Parcels are determined to be of a weight and size that one person can safely lift on their own, this means that one driver can collect, load and unload unaided at the depot and at the collection and delivery addresses.
Your parcel will be collected from your address, taken to the local depot, transferred onto HGV's and taken to the main sorting hub, where it will be sorted using a conveyorable system, similar to a baggage handling system in an airport. The parcel will then be loaded onto a HGV taken to the local depot for the delivery area and transferred onto the van for delivery.
Parcel services are designed to process high volumes at a low price. The delivery process is as automated as possible, and the human attention given to each parcel is very low. You therefore need to package your parcel so that it will be safe in transit. Machines can't read “this way up” or “fragile”, so you need to ensure that if the box is turned during the sorting process that the items in it will be safe and secure. Think “Heathrow Baggage Handling System” and you won’t go far wrong.
If you think that your delivery is not best suited to a Parcel system, then the list your item for quotes on the full uShip Courier Option . With a dedicated courier you know that there is no network, no sorting hubs or conveyor belt processes. Your item is simply collected, driven and delivered, and that’s why it costs a bit more.
Packaging
Packaging is always very important. Good packaging makes the difference between successful deliveries and unhappy customers.
Your packaging should eflect the fact that it should be able to withstand knocks and bashes from other items on the network. You should anticipate that something as heavy as 30kg could be the next thing along on the conveyor belt after your parcel.
You should pack you item so that there is no rattling. If nothing can move within the box, then there are minimal chances of damage.
Our general rule of guidance is you should package your item so that you’d be confident that it would survive a drop from waist height to the ground. Many of the parcel carriers price based on a fixed price up to a set limit on weight and dimensions, if your parcel carrier offers you this then you will not be charged for extra weight of volume added to the parcel for extra packaging, so use this opportunity to double box etc.
If you think that your item can't be packaged sufficiently for a Parcel delivery, then the List your item for quotes on the full uShip Courier Option (link to get quotes). With a dedicated courier you know that there is no network, no sorting hubs or conveyor belt processes. Your item is simply collected, driven and delivered, and that’s why it costs a bit more.
What can I send in a parcel?
Parcel2Go clearly states what can and can’t be sent via their parcel networks.
Please note certain items are prohibited on parcel services, certain items are carried without insurance for damage at the senders risk meaning Parcel2Go.com will not accept liability for damage to these items caused through the use of this service and certain items require more detail before sending.
Check your item against the prohibited item list here - Parcel2Go Prohibitied Items.
Check your items against the uninsured item list here - Parcel2Go Uninsured Items.
Check your items against the more info required list here - Parcel2Go More Info.
Please note that if you send any of the items on any of these lists you item will not be covered by insurance, and could in fact risk their delivery being cancelled and destroyed.
If you are sending Hazardous or Prohibited goods, then please list the item on uShip through the normal process, (link to get quotes) making sure that you select the hazardous goods categories so that the transporters can ensure that they quote to you appropriately.
How much does a standard parcel delivery cost?
Prices for a standard parcel service, on a next day, tracked and insured service with delivery before 3pm, tend in the UK to cost between £7 and £15. The price varies depending on the choice of carrier, and whether you request timed or morning deliveries.
How big can a standard parcel be?
Each of the parcel networks have their own maximum dimensions and weights, and the total maximum is usually based on a volume measurement, so parcels can be long and skinny or short and fat, however typically, most carriers will take parcels within the following dimensions;
Length - 150cm Width - 60 cmDepth - 60 cmAnd with a weight of less than 30kg (some parcel carriers are now using a maximum of 25kg).
What ever the maximum measurements are. Don’t send parcel that are larger than declared and hope that they’ll just not notice at the depot. They will. And your parcel will typically be removed from the service, held in the depot until they can contact you, then charge you the full rate for re-delivery back to you. Check your dimensions and your weights fully before sending, and don’t underdeclare on the online booking forms.
Parcel services are designed to process high volumes at minimal cost. The delivery process is as automated as possible, and the human attention given to each parcel is very low. You therefore need to package your parcel so that it will be safe in transit. Machines can't read “this way up” or “fragile”, so you need to ensure that if the box is turned during the sorting process that the items in it will be safe and secure.
If you think that your delivery is too big or bulky for a Parcel system, then the List your item for quotes on the full uShip Courier Option (link to get quotes) where there are transport companies that can quote for even the largest and heaviest of loads.