Cheap Courier & UK Delivery Services on Shiply

Delivery is one of the oldest professions going – from medieval homing pigeons and messengers to modern day air-mail and logistics networks, the methods might have changed but the essence has stayed the same.

Getting something from A to B has never been easier, but it can be difficult to find competitive quotes or a cheap courier as many simply charge a flat rate of £1.20 per mile. Couriers tend to charge a high amount because of the relatively small margins involved in carrying out deliveries, transporters have to factor in all manner of costs when deciding what to charge for delivering your cargo (fuel, wages, vehicle maintenance etc.).

Smaller local couriers don’t always know where the next job will come from so it’s important for them to make a profit when they can. This is where you can find cheap courier quotes – if you are able to make sure that your delivery fits in with a route that a courier is already going to be travelling, you can often get a cheaper than standard rate.

If you’re able to find a driver going from Manchester to London and your package needs to go the opposite way, you can also find cheaper deals on return journeys.

Before You Get Your Stuff Moving

Check its condition: This way you can compare the before and after state of your items, helping you notice if it’s been knocked during transit (taking pictures can help).

Make sure it’s properly packaged: This will help avoid damage when it’s being transported

Choosing a Cheap Courier

When choosing a carrier for your important deliveries it’s important to know what level of service to expect, which is why it’s always important to check the credentials and experience of any delivery person whose services you employ.

Insurance: Being insured for carriage of goods for reward is a necessity for couriers. Couriering almost anything can carry risk to the items, which is why all recognised courier services will also have goods in transit insurance. The level of cover can vary so when you’re looking to move something valuable make sure you find a courier with the appropriate level of cover.

Licensing: Depending on the size of the vehicle and load being used, delivery drivers may need different qualifications to transport your load, so make sure you check with the service that you’re using a properly licensed courier. (3,500kg is the maximum amount allowed for a carrier on a normal licence)

Association: While not a requirement for couriers, being a member of a recognised body should ensure high standards and a good level of service. The National Courier Association and the Association of International Courier Express Services are both recognised organisations that help improve professional standards.