Have a large parcel to send? You've come to the right place!
At Interparcel, we offer a range of parcel courier services for all manner of shaped parcels. Whether you need to send a letterbox-sized package, a small parcel or a large parcel- we have a service for you.
However, large and heavy items need a bit of preparation before they are ready for shipment so we'll take you through the key steps from packaging and suitable couriers, so you can confidently book the right service for you.
Packaging your large item
It doesn't matter if you're sending a one-off large parcel or you're a regular online seller who sends large, heavy or long products; you'll need to make sure your item is properly secured for transit.
Select a suitably sized box
The first step to packaging a large item is choosing a suitably-sized cardboard box durable enough for transit. Under-filled boxes are more likely to collapse and overloaded boxes may burst. You will also need to fill any spaces between your item and the sides of the box with cushioning materials to protect your item from impact.
Choose the right material
A strong, double-walled (even triple-walled) cardboard box is the best option for sending goods by courier. However, we recommend choosing a box with stitched or stapled seams for large and heavy items rather than glued seams. Ideally, it would be best to use a new cardboard box rather than an old one so it's strong enough to carry the weight.
Keep your goods protected
You've found the perfect outer packaging for your item. Now it's time to pad out the inside of the box for maximum protection!
Bubble wrap and foam packing peanuts are two great options for protecting your item and minimising movement. Take care to wrap all parts of the item in protective material before placing it inside the box.
Securely fasten the box
You'll want to ensure your package is securely fastened for transit, especially when sending a large or heavy item. Seal and secure the box lids and sides tightly with robust packing tape. Masking tape will not support long or heavy parcels so opt for adhesive duct tape or similar.
Examples of large items
Our specialist couriers are capable of safely and affordably shipping large items. Below are a couple of the most common large items sent through our courier partners and how you can suitably prepare them for transit.
Ship a suitcase
Like any other item, suitcases must be packaged in double-walled cardboard to reduce the risk of damage or surcharges by the courier. If you don't have a box big enough for the suitcase, you can secure two strong cardboard boxes together with packing tape so it covers the whole suitcase. Pay extra attention to the wheels and handles too.
Ship a bike
Due to their large and awkward shape, sending a bicycle via courier can feel a little daunting. The best thing to use is a specially designed bike shipping box and cushioning materials to protect during transit. Depending on the size of your bike box, you will most likely be able to send it with one of our reliable courier services, like Tuffnells, for example.
Ship a pram
Many people opt to sell their pre-loved pushchairs and prams on online marketplaces like eBay for collection only but shipping a pram directly to the buyer's door is easier than you think. With a bit of deconstruction and bubble wrap, your pram will be ready for shipping.
Planning to send a different large item?
If you have a different large item to send, we always recommend you check our Prohibited & Restricted list before booking with us. You can filter the list by destination country and courier to see if your item is suitable for shipment.
When sending oversized packages of substantial value, covering the cost of loss or damage is essential. Most courier services offer a level of transit cover for free but you can enhance your transit cover for a small additional fee.
Please note: If your item is listed as restricted, it can be sent through select services at your own risk but no transit cover or guarantees will apply to the goods.
The cheapest way to ship large packages
Sending large parcels doesn't have to cost a fortune! When you book a large parcel delivery service through Interparcel, you can access a comprehensive range of couriers at discounted prices.
Below are some examples suitable for large parcel delivery:
Tuffnells
Experts in bulky, heavy and awkward-shaped parcels, Tuffnells regularly deliver shipments across the UK. Our partnership with Tuffnells means we can offer Economy, Express and Timed services at discounted prices.
Key facts about the Tuffnells Economy service:
- Suitable for parcels up to 100kg and 600cm in length
- Collection from your doorstep
- Delivery in 1-2 working days
- No printer required
- From £21.00 exc VAT
Evri
Evri (formerly Hermes) delivers millions of packages daily for individuals and businesses. We offer a comprehensive range of domestic and international Evri delivery services. For large parcels, Evri Light & Large is a popular choice.
Key facts about the Evri Light & Large service:
- Suitable for parcels up to 30kg and 180cm in length
- Collection from your doorstep
- Delivery in 3 working days
- From £21.75 exc VAT
APC
Need a large parcel sent Next Day? That's where APC comes in! By booking through us, you can take advantage of APC's reliable Next Day services to send essential items across the UK. APC Next Day is an ideal service for shipping oversized items at low-cost prices.
Key facts about the APC Next Day service:
- Suitable for parcels up to 30kg and 205cm in length
- Collection from your doorstep
- Delivery the next working day
- From £8.40 exc VAT
Parcelforce
Parcelforce transports parcels across the UK and overseas through their popular Drop Off and Collection services. Their Express 48 Large service is excellent for sending heavy or oversized packages.
Key facts about the Parcelforce Express 48 Large service:
- Suitable for parcels up to 30kg and 240cm in length
- Collection from your doorstep
- Delivery 2 working days
- From £30.65 exc VAT
CitySprint
If you need to send a parcel immediately for same-day delivery, CitySprint can handle that. Their LWB, Transit Van, Small Van and Motorcycle services are based on mileage rather than parcel dimensions, saving you money if your consignment isn't travelling too far!
Key facts about the CitySprint Long Wheel Base Van service:
- Suitable for parcels up to 1100kg and 300cm in length
- Collection from your doorstep
- Delivery same working day
- From £28.54 exc VAT
Of course, there are many more large parcel delivery services available to book through us, depending on the destination country. Explore the range of delivery options available via our free online quote tool. Pop in the parcel's dimensions and weight and we will generate an instant list of services available for you to book within seconds!
Got a pallet to send?
If you need to send a heavy item requiring a pallet, check out our range of expert pallet couriers. Palletways and Palletforce both offer affordable pallet delivery services. Our quick guide can also advise on how to package your pallet appropriately for collection.
We are always here to help with your large parcel-sending needs by offering a variety of reliable and low-cost parcel courier services. If you're interested in sending a large package with us, get an instant quote today and see how much you could save. Our parcel experts are also on hand seven days a week if you need any help during the booking process.
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