The last mile—the final leg of a delivery from the distribution centre to the customer’s doorstep—is one of the most critical aspects of ecommerce fulfilment.
It’s where customer satisfaction is won or lost. For UK-based ecommerce brands, choosing the right last-mile courier can mean the difference between glowing reviews and abandoned shopping carts.
This blog explores the best last-mile couriers operating in the UK. Whether you’re a startup or an established brand, this guide will help you identify the right courier for your ecommerce needs, balancing speed, reliability, and cost-efficiency.
Before diving into the top couriers, it’s essential to understand why the last mile matters so much:
With that in mind, let’s explore the best couriers for last-mile delivery in the UK.
Overview:
Royal Mail remains one of the UK’s most trusted couriers, with an unrivalled nationwide network reaching every corner of the country. From small parcels to tracked services, their consistency makes them a top choice for ecommerce brands.
Strengths:
Considerations:
While dependable, Royal Mail can face delays during peak seasons. Ecommerce brands may also need to compare costs for high-volume shipping.
Best For:
Small to medium-sized ecommerce businesses requiring affordable and reliable delivery across the UK.
Overview:
DPD is known for its premium delivery services and cutting-edge technology, including a one-hour delivery window and real-time tracking. For brands that prioritise customer experience, DPD is a strong contender.
Strengths:
Considerations:
DPD’s services can be more expensive, which may not suit smaller ecommerce brands with tight budgets.
Best For:
Ecommerce brands prioritising speed, precision, and an enhanced customer experience.
Overview:
Evri is one of the most popular couriers for cost-conscious ecommerce businesses. Their flexible services cater to a wide range of parcel types, with extensive coverage across the UK.
Strengths:
Considerations:
Evri has faced criticism in the past regarding delivery reliability, so it’s worth monitoring performance if you choose them.
Best For:
Small businesses looking for affordable last-mile delivery without premium features.
Overview:
Amazon Logistics is an in-house courier service for sellers using Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) or Seller Fulfilled Prime. They provide fast, reliable delivery, ensuring a seamless experience for Amazon customers.
Strengths:
Considerations:
Amazon Logistics is only available to Amazon sellers and isn’t an option for ecommerce businesses operating outside the platform.
Best For:
Amazon sellers who want to leverage Prime delivery standards for customer satisfaction.
Overview:
Yodel focuses on ecommerce fulfilment with tailored delivery options for parcels of all sizes. They work with many UK brands to deliver cost-effective last-mile solutions.
Strengths:
Considerations:
While Yodel’s prices are attractive, their delivery accuracy and speed have faced criticism in the past, so it’s essential to monitor performance.
Best For:
Brands shipping larger parcels or looking for cost-effective, straightforward solutions.
Overview:
Parcelforce Worldwide, part of the Royal Mail Group, is designed for larger shipments or express deliveries. Their service combines reliability with versatility, offering same-day and next-day options.
Strengths:
Considerations:
Parcelforce’s rates are higher than other couriers, particularly for smaller parcels.
Best For:
Ecommerce brands shipping large parcels or high-value items requiring fast delivery.
Overview:
CitySprint specialises in same-day delivery services, making it an excellent choice for urgent, time-sensitive orders. Their courier network spans across major UK cities and towns.
Strengths:
Considerations:
CitySprint’s niche focus on same-day delivery makes it less suitable for everyday parcel delivery.
Best For:
Ecommerce brands offering premium same-day delivery options in urban areas.
Selecting the best courier for your ecommerce brand isn’t just about price—it’s about finding a partner that aligns with your customer expectations and operational needs. Consider these factors when making your decision:
Pro Tip: Many ecommerce brands benefit from working with multiple couriers to cater to different delivery needs, such as premium services for urban areas and budget-friendly options for bulk shipments.
In the fast-paced world of ecommerce, your choice of last-mile courier can directly impact customer satisfaction, brand reputation, and profitability.
By selecting the right partner—or partners—you can ensure fast, reliable, and affordable deliveries that keep customers coming back for more.
At E-PickPack, we work with a range of top UK couriers, helping ecommerce brands navigate the complexities of last-mile delivery with ease.
Whether you need speed, scalability, or affordability, our fulfilment solutions ensure you always meet your customers’ expectations.
Ready to elevate your last-mile delivery strategy?
Let’s talk about how E-PickPack can support your logistics goals and connect you with the best couriers for your business.
Q: Which UK courier is best for next-day delivery?
DPD is widely regarded as one of the best for next-day delivery, thanks to their precision and tracking features.
Q: Are there affordable options for small ecommerce businesses?
Yes, couriers like Evri and Royal Mail offer cost-effective solutions ideal for small businesses.
Q: Can I use multiple couriers for last-mile delivery?
Absolutely. Many businesses use a mix of couriers to optimise cost, speed, and service for different regions and order types.
Q: What should I look for in a courier for rural deliveries?
Choose couriers like Royal Mail or Yodel with strong coverage in rural and remote areas.
Q: How can I manage last-mile delivery efficiently with multiple couriers?
Use a fulfilment provider like E-PickPack, which integrates with top couriers and automates the delivery process for seamless management.