The UK parcel delivery market is highly competitive, with a few major players dominating both market share and eCommerce usage. Royal Mail leads the market with a 25% share, followed by Amazon Logistics (17%) and Hermes (14%) in terms of parcel volume shipped.
Additionally, 56% of UK online stores reported using Royal Mail as their primary shipping provider, with DPD coming second at 40.7%. These insights demonstrate that businesses lean toward reliable and customer-centric delivery partners.
This article evaluates the UK’s leading courier services, providing a detailed comparison of pricing, benefits, and suitability for eCommerce businesses.
We also discuss how outsourcing fulfilment to 3PL providers can improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.
Summary Table of Delivery Services
| Courier | Key Features | eCommerce Preference | Best For |
| Royal Mail | Affordable, extensive UK coverage, carbon-neutral delivery | Preferred by 56% of UK eCommerce businesses | Small-to-medium businesses with domestic and international shipping needs |
| Amazon Logistics | Fully integrated with Amazon’s fulfilment network | Integrated with Amazon sellers’ operations | Amazon sellers seeking seamless fulfilment solutions |
| Hermes/Evri | Cost-effective, ParcelShops for drop-off, flexible services | Popular for budget-friendly, high-volume shipping | Budget-conscious businesses with non-urgent, high-volume shipping |
| DHL | Global reach, advanced tracking, green initiatives | Trusted by 19% of eCommerce stores for international shipments | Businesses shipping high-value or time-sensitive goods internationally |
| DPD | Industry-leading tracking, one-hour delivery slots | Used by 40.7% of eCommerce businesses | Businesses prioritising premium service and customer experience |
| Yodel | Weekend deliveries, tailored solutions, accessible drop-off points | Gaining traction among domestic retailers | Retailers needing flexible and domestic-focused shipping options |
| UPS | Reliable express service, 10,000+ EVs in operation, global network | Favoured for reliable domestic and EU shipping | Businesses shipping internationally, especially to EU countries |
Market Insights on UK Courier Services
Market Share by Volume
According to Statista (2023), the UK parcel delivery market share by parcel volume is as follows:
- Royal Mail: 25%
- Amazon Logistics: 17%
- Hermes/Evri: 14%
- DHL: 9%
- DPD: 6%
- Yodel: 6%
- Others: 11%
Royal Mail’s dominance is attributed to its widespread accessibility, affordable pricing, and reliability for small parcels.
Meanwhile, Amazon Logistics is gaining ground due to its fast delivery times and integration with Amazon’s fulfilment network. Hermes/Evri remains a popular choice for budget-conscious businesses.
eCommerce Preference for Courier Services
A survey of 1,413 UK online shops in 2023 reveals that the most commonly used shipping providers are:
- Royal Mail: 56%
- DPD: 40.7%
- DHL: 19%
- UPS: 11%
- Parcelforce: 8.1%
This shows that Royal Mail remains the top choice for eCommerce businesses, thanks to its comprehensive service offerings and affordable national delivery options.
DPD stands out for premium services like precise delivery windows and advanced tracking, making it a strong competitor in the eCommerce sector.
1. Royal Mail: A Household Name
Royal Mail remains one of the most popular delivery services in the UK, known for its extensive network and reliability.
It offers a variety of options, including First Class, Tracked 24, and Tracked 48 services, which are ideal for businesses looking to provide flexibility to their customers.
Market Position
- Market Share by Volume: 25% (Highest in the UK).
- eCommerce Usage: Preferred by 56% of UK online stores.
Royal Mail Prices for Small and Medium Parcels (2025)
National Shipments (Royal Mail 24 & 48)
| Service | Parcel Size | Weight Category | Price Range (GBP) |
| Royal Mail 24 | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | £3.85 – £6.35 |
| Medium Parcel | Up to 10kg | £6.05 – £15.85 | |
| Royal Mail 48 | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | £3.20 – £5.10 |
| Medium Parcel | Up to 10kg | £5.30 – £14.55 |
International Shipments
| Service | Parcel Size | Weight Category | Price Range (GBP) | Delivery Aim |
| International Standard | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | From £2.80 – £7.80 | 3-7 working days |
| International Tracked | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | From £7.90 – £18.00 | 3-7 working days |
| International Tracked & Signed | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | From £8.15 – £18.50 | 3-7 working days |
| International Economy | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | From £2.60 – £6.20 | Up to 2 weeks |
Source: Royal Mail
Key Benefits
- Extensive UK Coverage: Over 11,500 branches and thousands of drop-off points for convenience
- Competitive pricing for small parcels and letters
- Trusted brand with customer familiarity
- Carbon-neutral delivery through electric vehicles
Sustainability Efforts
- Fleet: Introduction of electric vans and bicycles for urban deliveries.
- Carbon Offsetting: Investing in renewable energy projects to reduce overall emissions.
Drop-Off/Collection Options
- Drop-Off: Parcels can be dropped off at post offices, Royal Mail ParcelBoxes, or collection points.
- Collection: Royal Mail offers a “Parcel Collect” service for businesses, where packages can be picked up directly from your address.
Ideal For
Small-to-medium eCommerce businesses shipping lightweight items such as books, clothing, and accessories.
2. Amazon Logistics: Seamless Fulfilment for Amazon Sellers
Market Position
- Market Share by Volume: 17% (Second largest in the UK).
FBA Pricing
Pricing is integrated into Amazon’s ecosystem via Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA). Pricing will be custom depending on your requirements.
Key Benefits
- Fast Delivery: Next-day and same-day options through Amazon Prime.
- Seamless Fulfilment Integration: Automatically handles orders from Amazon’s platform.
Sustainability Efforts
- Carbon Reduction Goals: Amazon is committed to achieving net-zero carbon by 2040.
- Fleet: Over 1,000 electric vehicles operating in the UK.
- Renewable Energy: Amazon warehouses are increasingly powered by solar panels.
Drop-Off/Collection Options
- Drop-Off: Not applicable; all fulfilment is handled within Amazon’s logistics network.
- Collection: Sellers send their inventory to Amazon Fulfilment Centres for processing and delivery.
Ideal For
Businesses selling on Amazon or those seeking fully integrated fulfilment services.
3. Hermes/Evri: Affordable and Accessible
Evri, formerly known as Hermes, is a cost-effective solution for eCommerce businesses handling a high volume of parcels.
While it may not have the premium reputation of other couriers, it provides affordable delivery options for businesses on a budget.
Market Position
- Market Share by Volume: 14% (Third largest in the UK).
Evri Prices for Small and Medium Parcels (2025)
National Shipments
| Service | Parcel Size | Weight Category | Price Range (GBP) | Delivery Aim |
| Standard Delivery | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | £2.62 – £4.60 | 2–3 working days |
| Medium Parcel | Up to 15kg | £6.26 – £9.94 | 2–3 working days | |
| Next Day Delivery | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | £3.20 – £5.40 | Next working day |
| Medium Parcel | Up to 15kg | £7.30 – £11.77 | Next working day |
International Shipments
| Service | Parcel Size | Weight Category | Price Range (GBP) | Delivery Aim |
| Evri International Standard | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | £8.00 – £16.50 | 3–7 working days (Europe) |
| Evri International Tracked | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | £9.00 – £18.00 | 3–7 working days (Europe) |
| Evri International Economy | Small Parcel | Up to 2kg | From £6.50 | 7–14 working days (Worldwide) |
Source: Evri National & Evri International
Key Benefits
- Affordability: Cost-effective for high-volume shippers.
- Convenience: Thousands of ParcelShops across the UK.
Sustainability Efforts
- Eco-Hubs: Energy-efficient sorting hubs reduce the environmental impact.
- Electric Vehicles: Committed to transitioning a significant portion of its fleet to electric.
- Packaging Recycling: Partnerships with retailers to encourage recyclable packaging.
Drop-Off/Collection Options
- Drop-Off: ParcelShops and lockers in convenient locations such as supermarkets.
- Collection: Doorstep collection available for businesses or consumers.
Ideal For
Budget-conscious businesses shipping non-urgent items like fashion, home goods, or small appliances.
4. DHL: Global Leader in Speed and Reliability
Market Position:
- Market Share by Volume: 9%.
- eCommerce Usage: Preferred by 19% of UK online stores.
DHL eCommerce UK Domestic Parcel Delivery Prices (2025)
| Parcel Size | Weight Limit | Maximum Dimensions (cm) | Price (GBP) |
| Small | Up to 5kg | 35 (L) x 35 (W) x 35 (H) | From £2.79 |
| Medium | Up to 10kg | 60 (L) x 60 (W) x 60 (H) | From £2.79 |
| Large | Up to 20kg | 60 (L) x 60 (W) x 60 (H) | From £4.90 |
| Extra Large | Up to 30kg | 120 (L) x 70 (W) x 70 (H) | From £8.80 |
Source: DHL
Key Benefits
- Global Reach: Operates in over 220 countries with fast, secure international deliveries.
- Advanced Tracking: Real-time updates and customer notifications.
Sustainability Efforts
- Zero Emissions by 2050: DHL’s mission to become the green leader in logistics.
- Green Fleet: Over 20,000 electric vehicles globally.
- Carbon-Neutral Options: Carbon offsetting available for businesses.
Drop-Off/Collection Options
- Drop-Off: Service points and lockers are widely available across the UK.
- Collection: Business accounts can arrange regular collection services.
Ideal For
Businesses shipping internationally, especially high-value or time-sensitive goods like electronics, luxury goods, or medical supplies.
5. DPD: Excellence in Tracking and Reliability
DPD has earned a stellar reputation for its efficient delivery and industry-leading tracking technology.
The service provides customers with a one-hour delivery window and real-time tracking, enhancing the overall customer experience.
Market Position
- Market Share by Volume: 6%.
- eCommerce Usage: Used by 40.7% of UK online stores.
DPD Local Online Parcel Delivery Prices (2025)
Domestic Shipments (UK)
| Service | Weight Category | Price (GBP, exc. VAT) | Delivery Time |
| Shop to Shop | Up to 20kg | £2.99 | 1-2 working days |
| Door 2 Door – Next Day | Up to 1kg | £7.50 | Next working day |
| 1kg to 5kg | £7.50 | Next working day | |
| 5kg to 10kg | £10.01 | Next working day | |
| 10kg to 20kg | £14.49 | Next working day | |
| 20kg to 30kg | £16.99 | Next working day |
International Shipments
| Service | Weight Category | Price (GBP, exc. VAT) | Delivery Time |
| International Delivery | Up to 1kg | £5.81 | Varies by destination |
| 1kg to 5kg | £8.93 | Varies by destination | |
| 5kg to 10kg | £8.93 | Varies by destination | |
| 10kg to 20kg | £20.47 | Varies by destination | |
| 20kg to 30kg | £30.72 | Varies by destination |
Source: DPD
Key Benefits
- Predictable Delivery Slots: Customers are given a one-hour window.
- Premium Tracking: Industry-leading app for real-time updates.
Sustainability Efforts
- Carbon-Neutral Delivery: Offsetting emissions for all deliveries since 2013.
- Fleet: Deployment of electric vehicles and cycle couriers for urban areas.
Drop-Off/Collection Options
- Drop-Off: 2,500 DPD Pickup shops.
- Collection: Scheduled collections for business accounts.
Ideal For
Premium eCommerce businesses prioritising customer experience, such as luxury, electronics, or time-sensitive products.
6. Yodel: Flexible and Accessible for Domestic Needs
Market Position:
- Market Share by Volume: 6%.
Yodel Direct Parcel Delivery Prices (2025)
| Parcel Weight | Price (GBP, exc. VAT) | Service | Maximum Dimensions |
| Up to 1 kg | £2.25 | Store-to-Store Store-to-Door |
60 x 50 x 50 cm |
| Up to 2 kg | £3.26 | Store-to-Store Store-to-Door |
60 x 50 x 50 cm |
| Up to 5 kg | £4.67 | Store-to-Store Store-to-Door |
60 x 50 x 50 cm |
| Up to 10 kg | £5.51 | Store-to-Store Store-to-Door |
60 x 50 x 50 cm |
| Up to 15 kg | £8.69 | Door-to-Door | 120 x 50 x 50 cm |
Source: Yodel
Key Benefits
- Weekend Deliveries: Offers Saturday and Sunday delivery options.
- Tailored Solutions: Customisable for specific retail needs.
Sustainability Efforts
- Electric Fleet Expansion: Committed to using electric vehicles in urban areas.
- Hub Efficiency: Energy-efficient facilities for parcel processing.
Drop-Off/Collection Options
- Drop-Off: Service points at partner retailers.
- Collection: Available for businesses with regular shipping needs.
Ideal For
Retailers needing flexible delivery schedules, especially for promotional or non-urgent goods.
7. UPS: International Expertise
UPS is a global leader in logistics, making it a top choice for UK eCommerce businesses with international shipping needs.
Its reliable express services and vast global network ensure timely deliveries across the world.
Market Position
- Market Share by Volume: 6%.
UPS Parcel Delivery Prices (2025)
Domestic Shipments (UK Mainland)
| Parcel Size | Service | Price (GBP, incl. VAT) | Delivery Time |
| Extra Small | Door-to-Door | From £7.49 | 2-3 business days before end of day |
| Small | Door-to-Door | From £7.79 | 2-3 business days before end of day |
| Medium | Door-to-Door | From £8.99 | 2-3 business days before end of day |
| Large | Door-to-Door | From £10.79 | 2-3 business days before end of day |
| Extra Large | Door-to-Door | From £11.99 | 2-3 business days before end of day |
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UPS International Shipping Rates
| Parcel Size | Price (GBP, incl. VAT) | Delivery Time |
| Extra Small Parcel | From £11.99 | Within 3 business days before end of the day |
| Small Parcel | From £12.99 | Within 3 business days before end of the day |
| Medium Parcel | From £13.99 | Within 3 business days before end of the day |
| Large Parcel | From £14.99 | Within 3 business days before end of the day |
| Extra Large Parcel | From £17.99 | Within 3 business days before end of the day |
Source: UPS
Key Benefits
- Global Network: Delivers to 220+ countries with high reliability.
- Secure Shipping: Excellent for high-value goods.
Sustainability Efforts
- Electric Vehicles: 10,000+ EVs in operation.
- Green Packaging: Promotes reusable and recyclable packaging solutions.
Drop-Off/Collection Options
- Drop-Off: Over 2,800 UPS Access Points in the UK.
- Collection: Scheduled pickups for businesses.
Ideal For
International businesses shipping high-value or time-sensitive items.
Understanding 3PL and Outsourcing Fulfilment
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to outsource their order fulfilment process.
By partnering with a fulfilment service, eCommerce businesses can delegate storage, packing, and shipping tasks, allowing them to focus on growth and customer engagement.
Benefits of 3PL
- Scalability: Easily handle increased order volumes during peak seasons without the need to invest in additional infrastructure.
- Cost Savings: Reduce operational costs by leveraging 3PL expertise and economies of scale.
- Expertise: Access specialised logistics knowledge, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
- Integration: Many 3PL providers integrate seamlessly with eCommerce platforms, automating the fulfilment process.
Outsourcing fulfilment to a trusted 3PL provider can help streamline operations, improve delivery times, and enhance customer satisfaction—making it a vital strategy for growing businesses.
How to Choose the Right Delivery Service
When selecting the best delivery service for your eCommerce business, consider the following:
- Customer Expectations: Do your customers prioritise speed, affordability, or tracking? Choose a service that aligns with their needs.
- Integration: Ensure the courier integrates seamlessly with your eCommerce platform for efficient operations.
- Budget: Compare costs across providers to find a balance between affordability and service quality.
- Scalability: Pick a service that can grow with your business, whether you’re shipping domestically or internationally.
Why Reliable Delivery Matters
A dependable delivery service not only ensures customer satisfaction but also helps reduce returns and negative reviews.
With the UK’s eCommerce market growing rapidly, offering excellent shipping options can set your business apart.
By partnering with a trusted fulfilment service like Impact Express, you can streamline your operations and focus on scaling your business. Explore our tailored eCommerce delivery solutions today to see how we can help you achieve your goals.
