UK Parcel Size & Weight Limits by Courier
Updated April 2026 · 4 min read
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Every courier has different rules about how big and heavy your parcel can be. Send something that exceeds the limits and it will be returned, surcharged, or refused. This guide covers every major UK courier’s restrictions so you can ship with confidence.
Weight & Size Limits at a Glance
| Courier | Max Weight | Max Length | Max L+W+H | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Mail (Small Parcel) | 2kg | 61cm | 90cm | Cheapest RM option |
| Royal Mail (Medium Parcel) | 20kg | 61cm | 90cm | Over 2kg or over small parcel dims |
| Royal Mail (Large Parcel) | 30kg | 2.5m | 3m | Parcelforce service required |
| Evri | 15kg | 120cm | 245cm | Size categories: S, M, L |
| DPD | 30kg | 175cm | 300cm | Oversize surcharge over 120cm length |
| Yodel | 30kg | 150cm | 300cm | Oversize surcharge over 120cm length |
| UPS | 70kg | 274cm | 400cm | Large package surcharge over 30kg |
| FedEx | 68kg | 274cm | 330cm | Oversize surcharge applies |
Evri Size Categories Explained
Evri uses three size bands rather than exact dimensions. Understanding these helps you choose the right service and avoid surcharges:
| Size Band | Max Dimensions | Max Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 45 × 35 × 16cm | 1kg |
| Medium | 50 × 50 × 50cm | 5kg |
| Large | 120 × 60 × 60cm | 15kg |
What Happens If You Exceed the Limits?
Different couriers handle oversized parcels differently:
- Royal Mail: Will refuse the parcel at the Post Office or return it to sender if it exceeds the size category on the label.
- Evri: May accept the parcel but apply a surcharge or return it. Consistently oversized parcels can lead to account suspension.
- DPD: Will collect the parcel but apply an oversize surcharge of £3–£12 depending on how much it exceeds the standard size.
- Yodel: Similar to DPD — surcharge applied retrospectively. You will see it on your invoice.
- UPS: Applies a “Large Package Surcharge” of approximately £15 for parcels over 30kg or over certain dimensions.
- FedEx: Applies an oversize surcharge and may reclassify the shipment to a more expensive service tier.
How to Measure Your Parcel Correctly
Incorrect measurements are one of the most common reasons for unexpected surcharges. Follow these rules:
- Measure the outer dimensions. Measure the box, not the item inside. Include any bulges, handles, or protruding tape.
- Length is the longest side. Width is the next longest. Height is the shortest. Always list them in this order.
- Round up, not down. If a side measures 31.5cm, enter 32cm. Couriers will always round up when they check.
- Weigh after packing. Add the weight of the box, bubble wrap, and packing material. A sturdy double-walled box can add 500g or more.
- Check volumetric weight. Couriers may charge by volumetric weight if it is greater than actual weight. The formula is: Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 5000 = volumetric weight (kg). Compare this with the actual weight and use whichever is higher.
Volumetric Weight Example
A box measuring 50 × 40 × 30cm that weighs 3kg has a volumetric weight of (50 × 40 × 30) ÷ 5000 = 12kg. The courier would charge for 12kg, not 3kg. This is why keeping your box size small matters just as much as keeping the weight down.
Quick Tips
- Use the smallest box that safely fits your item. Paying for air is the most expensive mistake in shipping.
- For irregularly shaped items, wrap them tightly in cardboard and measure the overall package.
- Keep a tape measure and kitchen scale at your packing station. Guessing leads to surcharges.
- If your parcel is borderline on size, consider a different courier with more generous limits rather than risking a surcharge.
Not sure which courier accepts your parcel size? Enter your dimensions on Parcelfire and we will only show couriers that can handle it.