Sending important documents by courier

How to send important documents by courier

16th October 2023, 1:01pm in Shipping Advice by Amy Newham

Sending a document in the post rather than by email might seem old-fashioned, but it is still necessary. When sending important documents by post in the UK, you’ll want to know the best way to ship, right?

We’ve put together a guide on how to send documents by post, including examples, packaging advice and recommended courier services.

What is an example of an important document?

preparing to post an important document

Important documents typically connote legal or confidential documents. This includes contracts, tenders or financial information.

However, you must check our Prohibited & Restricted Items list before you attempt to courier documents. Items like birth certificates, bankers’ drafts and passports are all prohibited and cannot be sent via any courier service.

How do you send important documents?

Paper documents are relatively small and delicate, so they are more at risk of damage. You want to ensure the document stays crisp from A to B with no scuffs or indentations.

When packaging sensitive documents, we recommend you use the following:

  • A thick, hard-backed envelope / padded jiffy bag so the document cannot be read through the packaging
  • A waterproof bag to place the document inside to help protect against the weather
  • Bubble wrap / internal packaging to fill any space inside the parcel
  • Strong parcel tape to secure the item inside

What is the quickest way to send documents in the UK?

For important documents, you need a fast and reliable courier service. Our selection of Same Day delivery services available with CitySprint and DeliveryApp are popular for sending sensitive documents across the UK.

CitySprint is the go-to for shipping time-sensitive parcels on the same day as collection. Their motorcycle courier service is their cheapest service, and can carry documents and small packages up to 30cm in length.

For those critical documents, DeliveryApp’s advantage is that they transport parcels door-to-door. No sorting hubs, one dedicated vehicle, and direct A to B parcel delivery across the UK. It might be more expensive than other courier services, but you can’t put a price on peace of mind. CitySprint and DeliveryApp services come with £25 inclusive transit cover and proof of delivery.


Of course, you can send documents with most of our couriers. Still, for a little more money, Same Day services give you many added benefits of speed, convenience and reliability.

Please be aware that there is always a risk when sending confidential information by courier. Our Same Day delivery services are not guaranteed. Please read our Terms of Use for comprehensive guidance.

Can I track my parcel?

tracking an important document delivery

Once your parcel is collected and scanned by the delivery driver, you can track the progress of your delivery on our website. All you need is your 12-digit Interparcel Tracking number. You can follow the delivery van for Same Day services as it makes its way across the country. For all other services, we will provide live updates.

You can also sign up for text or email alerts regarding your parcel’s journey during booking.

Get a parcel delivery quote for your important document with Interparcel.

Once you’ve securely packaged your document, enter the parcel weight and dimensions on our Same Day Quote page. You can then browse our available cost-effective courier services and book the one that is right for you.

If you need assistance with your Interparcel booking, don’t hesitate to get in touch via email, telephone or live chat. A friendly customer service team member will be happy to help—another added benefit of sending your parcels with Interparcel.

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