How to Send a Parcel Cheap UK — Ultimate Guide

Step 1: Measure and weigh accurately

The single biggest mistake people make is guessing their parcel dimensions. Couriers use volumetric weight (length x width x height / 5000) and charge whichever is higher — actual weight or volumetric weight. A large but light box can cost twice what it should.

Use a tape measure and kitchen scales. Round up to the nearest centimetre and 0.1kg. This alone can save you £2–5 by ensuring you pick the right size bracket.

Step 2: Choose the right packaging

Do not use a massive box for a small item. Cut down a larger box or use a padded envelope for items under 2kg. Royal Mail large letter rates (from £1.55) are dramatically cheaper than small parcel rates (£3.89+), so if your item fits within 353mm x 250mm x 25mm, always use a large letter.

Step 3: Compare, do not guess

Most people default to Royal Mail because it is familiar. But for parcels over 1kg, couriers like Evri (from £3), Yodel (from £3.49) and DPD (from £4.89) frequently beat Royal Mail by £2–8 per parcel. The only way to know is to compare prices for your exact parcel.

Step 4: Drop off, do not collect

Choosing a drop-off point instead of home collection typically saves £1–3. Evri has over 7,000 ParcelShops across the UK, DPD has 6,000+ Pickup points, and Royal Mail has 11,500 post offices. Most are within a 5-minute drive.

Step 5: Go slower if you can

Next-day delivery is a premium you often do not need. A 5kg parcel sent next-day with DPD costs around £6.50. The same parcel with Evri economy (3–5 days) costs £4.49. If the recipient can wait, choose economy and pocket the difference.

Step 6: Book through a comparison site

Comparison sites like Parcelfire negotiate bulk rates with couriers and pass the savings to you. This means you get the same DPD or Evri service at 20–50% less than booking direct on the courier website. There is no catch — the service, tracking and support are identical.

Cheapest options by parcel size

Pro tips from regular shippers

• Reuse packaging from your own deliveries — just remove old labels completely.
• Print labels at home to avoid post office queues and handwriting surcharges.
• For returns, check if the retailer offers free return labels before paying yourself.
• If sending multiple parcels, book them all at once for potential multi-parcel discounts.