Top 10 Best Shipping Companies in UK in 2023

The UK has a thriving e-commerce industry, with online sales projected to reach £187 billion by 2025. As more people shop online, the demand for reliable and affordable shipping services also increases. Choosing the right delivery partner can make all the difference for an online business.

This guide will explore the top 10 best shipping companies in UK for e-commerce and online sellers. We will look at their services, prices, and reliability to help you find the right fit for your business.

What to Look for in a Shipping Company

When evaluating shipping companies in the UK, here are some key factors to consider:

Reliability and Delivery Times

The number one priority is getting parcels safely to customers on time. Look for couriers with good track records for on-time delivery and low damage rates. Fast transit times are also essential for satisfying buyers.

Range of Services

Top carriers offer a wide array of shipping solutions for all types of e-commerce businesses. Look for things like next-day deliveries, click and collect options, returns management, etc.

Competitive Pricing

Balance speed and reliability with affordable rates. Compare prices between couriers to find the best value. Look for discounts on high volumes or negotiated custom rates.

Customer Service

Good customer support can resolve issues quickly if problems arise. Seek carriers with responsive customer service teams and transparent claims processes.

Scalability

As your sales grow, you need a company that can scale with you. Make sure they offer solutions to support small startups to major enterprise clients.

By evaluating carriers across these criteria, online sellers can identify the right partner for their needs. Now let’s dive into the top shipping options in the UK e-commerce market.

1. Royal Mail

Royal Mail is the UK’s flagship postal service moving over 13 billion parcels and letters annually. They offer dependable delivery across the UK with over 1,300 delivery offices nationwide.

Services

• Royal Mail Tracked – Basic tracked option for small parcels up to 2kg
• Royal Mail Tracked 24/48 – Guaranteed next day delivery by 1 or 9pm
• Royal Mail Tracked 48 – 2 day delivery service
• Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed – Same day delivery by 1pm or 9am next day

Prices

• 1st Class letters start at £1.10, while 1st Class Signed For starts at £2.60.
• 2nd Class letters start at £0.75, while 2nd Class Signed For starts at £2.25.
• 1st Class parcels start at £3.69, while Tracked 24 starts at £4.15.
• 2nd Class parcels start at £2.99, while Tracked 48 starts at £3.45.

Royal Mail offers volume discounts for large shipment numbers.

Why Choose Royal Mail?

With extensive infrastructure and delivery experience, Royal Mail is a safe choice for online retailers sending large volumes nationwide. Their special delivery options also support time-critical parcel delivery.

2. DPD

DPD is one of the UK’s largest parcel couriers, operating one of Europe’s most advanced road networks. They deliver over 275 million parcels annually.

Services

• DPD Next Day – Guaranteed next day delivery by 12 noon to both residential and business addresses
• DPD Next Day amended – Evening delivery by 6pm
• DPD 2-3 Days – Delivery within 2 to 3 working days
• DPD Classic – 3-5 day service for heavy/large items weighing 30kg+

Prices

Why Choose DPD?

With industry-leading transit times and tracking updates, DPD is ideal for time-sensitive UK deliveries. Their later drop-off times also support next day fulfilment cycles.

3. Parcelforce