How to Send a Parcel Without a Printer (Drop-Off Guide 2026)

We hear this question constantly: "I do not have a printer, how do I send a parcel?" It used to be a genuine headache. In 2026, there are so many printerless options that not owning a printer is barely an inconvenience anymore.

Option 1: QR Code Drop-Off (Easiest and Cheapest)

When you book a parcel through a parcel comparison service, select a drop-off option that offers a QR code. Take your parcel to the drop-off location, show the QR code on your phone, and the staff scan it and print the label right there.

Evri ParcelShop (from around 3 pounds) - Over 7,000 locations including Tesco, Sainsbury's, Co-op, and newsagents.
InPost Lockers (from 2.99 pounds) - Completely self-service. Available 24/7. Over 5,000 locations.
DPD Pickup (from 3.29 pounds) - Drop at Sainsbury's, Matalan, and other DPD pickup shops. Next day delivery included.
Amazon Hub Counter - For Amazon returns, many WHSmith, Next, and Co-op stores handle everything with a QR code.

Option 2: Post Office Counter (No Label Needed at All)

Walk into a Post Office with your parcel, tell the staff where it is going, and they do everything. You can even write the address directly on the parcel with a pen. The downside is cost. A 1kg parcel via Royal Mail 48 costs about 4.45 pounds at the counter versus 2.89 pounds booked online.

Option 3: Find Somewhere to Print

Public library (10-20p per page) - Almost every public library has a printer.
Ryman (30p per page) - Self-service printing stations in most stores.
Local newsagent (30-50p) - Many will print a page if you ask.
Workplace printer - Most employers will not mind a single shipping label.

Option 4: Courier Collection (They Bring the Label)

Some courier collection services bring a pre-printed label with the driver. Common with DPD collections and some Parcelforce services. Costs 1 to 3 pounds extra but completely printerless. Check on Parcelfire when booking.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Selling on eBay, Depop, or Vinted? Use Evri ParcelShop with QR code. Cheapest option, loads of locations.
Returning an Amazon item? Use Amazon QR code return. Usually free for Amazon-dispatched items.
Sending to family? Post Office counter is the easiest for a one-off.
Something valuable? Book DPD Pickup with QR code. From 3.29 pounds.
Large or heavy item? Book a courier collection with driver-printed label.

Tips for Smooth Printerless Shipping

Screenshot your QR code. Mobile signal can be patchy inside shops.
Check the drop-off location before you go. Not every Evri shop has a working printer.
Bring your phone charger. If your phone dies, your QR code dies with it.
Write the address on the parcel as backup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I send a parcel without printing a label?

Yes. Most major couriers now offer printerless options. Evri, InPost, Amazon, and Royal Mail all have QR code or in-store label printing services.

Which couriers offer QR code drop-off?

Evri ParcelShop, InPost Lockers, Amazon Hub Counters, and DPD Pickup shops all offer QR code label printing.

Can I handwrite an address and post it at a Post Office?

Yes, Royal Mail still accepts parcels with handwritten addresses. This is the simplest option but usually the most expensive.

Where can I print a shipping label if I do not have a printer?

Public libraries (10-20p per page), Ryman stores, local print shops, and some Post Offices. Many newsagents will print for 30-50p.

Is it cheaper to use a QR code or print my own label?

The courier price is the same either way. A QR code costs nothing extra. The QR code option is both cheaper and more convenient.

Not having a printer is no longer an excuse to overpay at the Post Office. Compare prices on Parcelfire, choose a QR code option, and save yourself both the hassle and the money.