10 Best Royal Mail Alternatives for UK Parcel Delivery

For nearly 500 years, Royal Mail has been a cornerstone of the UK’s postal system. However, rising costs, service disruptions, and limited operating hours have led many individuals and businesses to seek alternatives to Royal Mail. 

Whether you’re an eCommerce seller, a retailer, or a small business owner, choosing the right courier service can save you time, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Using a platform like Easyship can also provide you with valuable insights on multi-carrier software and how to optimize your business operations by automating shipping. Below, we explore 10 reliable Royal Mail alternatives and what they offer.

Top Royal Mail Alternatives

If you’re looking to diversify the courier services that you use, here are some of the best alternatives for you to ensure smooth operations for your business.

1. DHL Express: A Global Leader in Shipping

DHL Express is a trusted name in global shipping and a strong alternative to Royal Mail for businesses with international shipping needs. Their services include next-day delivery, extensive international coverage, and real-time tracking.

• Cost: UK parcel delivery starts from £2.79 for small parcels and £4.90 for larger ones.
• Convenience: Door-to-door collection and delivery services.

2. Evri: Affordable Shipping for Small Businesses

Formerly known as Hermes, Evri is known for cost-effective parcel delivery, making it a popular choice for small businesses.

• Cost: Domestic delivery starts at ~£4.50, making it one of the most affordable tracked options.
• Reliability: Delivery for parcels up to 15kg, with tracking included.
• Convenience: Flexible options for parcel collection or drop-off at a local shop.

3. DPD: Advanced Tracking and Premium Features

DPD specializes in precision delivery with advanced tracking options. Their services include a one-hour delivery window and Sunday delivery, which are perfect for eCommerce businesses that need to keep customers informed.

• Cost: Prices begin at ~£6.35 to £7.19, offering strong value for premium tracking and delivery windows.
• Reliability: High on-time delivery rates with Predict notifications, ideal for handling multiple deliveries efficiently.

4. FedEx: Fast and Reliable Global Shipping

FedEx offers robust domestic and international shipping options. Known for its speed, FedEx is ideal for urgent or time-sensitive shipments.

• Cost: Expect to pay £10–15+ for domestic services, reflecting its focus on speed and reliability.
• Reliability: Delivers to 220+ countries with a focus on speed.

5. UPS: Versatile Courier with Strong Business Tools

UPS provides reliable shipping solutions with a focus on business users. Their tools include batch shipping for high-volume orders and an online dashboard for managing shipments.

• Cost: Starting costs range from £7–10, depending on parcel weight, with business tools included.
• Convenience: Flexible options for businesses shipping in bulk.

6. Parcelforce: Best for High-Value Goods

Although part of the Royal Mail Group, Parcelforce offers distinct advantages, especially for shipping valuable items. Their services include free cover for items worth up to £100 and comprehensive tracking.

• Cost: Next-day delivery services start from ~£18–19, ideal for high-value or urgent parcels.
• Reliability: Includes next-day and international delivery options.
• Saturday delivery: Available for an extra fee, providing added convenience for customers who need to send items during the weekend.

7. Collect+: Convenient Drop-Off Points

Collect+ allows users to drop off parcels at local shops, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to avoid courier pickups or Post Office queues. Some courier services also offer international deliveries, catering to both personal and business needs across borders.

• Cost: Budget-friendly drop-off shipping starts around £5–6, with 3–5 day delivery times.
• Convenience: Over 7,000 drop-off points across the UK.

8. InPost: Eco-Friendly Locker Delivery

InPost uses parcel lockers for contact-free delivery. Customers can send, collect, or return parcels 24/7, which is ideal for eco-conscious businesses.

• Cost: Locker-based services start at just £1.99, with home delivery from £2.89 for small parcels.
• Convenience: Lockers located in supermarkets and petrol stations.

9. Asendia: International Expertise for Growing Businesses

Asendia specializes in cross-border eCommerce logistics, offering solutions for businesses looking to expand globally.

• Cost: Designed for cross-border eCommerce, UK domestic rates aren't standard, but international starts from ~£15+.
• Reliability: Combines local and global networks to streamline deliveries.

Understanding the UK Courier Landscape

The UK courier landscape is a vibrant and ever-evolving market, catering to a wide array of delivery needs for both businesses and individuals. This market is a blend of traditional postal services like Royal Mail and private courier companies such as DPD, Evri, and FedEx. These providers offer a spectrum of services, including parcel delivery, international shipping, and specialized options like same-day delivery and refrigerated transport.

In recent years, the UK courier market has seen substantial growth, largely fueled by the surge in e-commerce and the increasing demand for swift and reliable delivery services. This boom has intensified competition among courier companies, prompting many to offer competitive pricing, enhanced services, and innovative solutions to meet the changing needs of their customers.

A significant trend in the UK courier market is the adoption of technology to boost efficiency and enhance customer experience. Many courier companies are investing in digital solutions, such as online branded tracking and mobile apps, to provide real-time updates on parcel status and streamline the delivery process.

Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly delivery services. With rising concerns about climate change and the environmental impact of delivery operations, many courier companies are exploring alternative fuels, electric vehicles, and other green solutions to reduce their carbon footprint.

Why Businesses and Consumers Are Switching from Royal Mail

Royal Mail has faced criticism in recent years due to frequent strikes, rising postage costs, and inconsistent delivery times. For eCommerce businesses, these issues directly affect customer experience and profitability. With delivery reliability ranking as a top priority for online shoppers, delays and rising costs can damage trust and reduce repeat sales.

For example, if you run an online shop with 1,000 shipments a month, even a small delay can result in hundreds of customer complaints. By switching to a faster, more cost-effective courier, including exploring alternative courier services, you can streamline your logistics while meeting customer expectations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Alternatives to Royal Mail

When evaluating a courier service provider as an alternative to Royal Mail, focus on these key factors:

1. Cost: Check rates based on package weight, size, and delivery speed.
2. Reliability: Ensure the courier offers on-time delivery with minimal service disruptions.
3. Convenience: Look for door-to-door services, flexible pickup options, or accessible drop-off points.
4. Tracking: Real-time tracking helps both you and your customers stay updated on deliveries.
5. International Reach: If you ship internationally, choose a courier with strong global coverage.

Every business is unique and has their own specific requirements and priorities. In that regard, it makes sense to use shipping tools like those provided by Easyship to optimize your shipping process and streamline logistics. This can also help you compare multi-carrier rates and assess your options before deciding your preferred courier service.

Conclusion

Switching to a Royal Mail alternative, such as UK Mail, can transform your shipping process, whether you’re a small business owner or a high-volume seller. By comparing options like DHL, Evri, DPD, and UPS, you can find a courier that meets your needs for cost, convenience, and reliability. Explore these alternatives and take control of your logistics today.

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Royal Mail Alternatives FAQs

Why should I consider switching from Royal Mail to another courier service?

Switching from Royal Mail can provide several benefits, including reduced costs, faster delivery times, and better reliability. Many couriers, such as DHL and DPD, offer advanced tracking, door-to-door services, and international shipping options that are tailored to meet the needs of eCommerce businesses. If your business has experienced delays or rising postage costs with Royal Mail, exploring alternatives could improve your logistics and customer satisfaction.

How do I choose the best courier service for my business?

When selecting a courier, consider factors like shipping rates, delivery speed, reliability, and convenience. Tools like Easyship can simplify the process by comparing rates from multiple couriers and helping you choose the best option for your specific needs. For example, Easyship offers integrations with eCommerce platforms and provides features like automated shipping rules, ensuring a seamless shipping process.

Are Royal Mail alternatives suitable for international shipping?

Yes, many Royal Mail alternatives, such as FedEx, UPS, and Asendia, specialize in international shipping. These couriers offer global networks, customs support, and competitive rates for cross-border deliveries. For businesses expanding internationally, using tools like Easyship can help streamline international shipping by managing duties, taxes, and delivery options for multiple regions.

Does Easyship offer discounted shipping rates?

Yes, Easyship provides exclusive pre-negotiated shipping rates, helping businesses save up to 91% on courier costs. By leveraging Easyship's partnerships with major couriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS, you can access affordable rates for both domestic and international deliveries. Additionally, Easyship’s tools allow you to compare rates and delivery times to choose the best option for your needs.