Updated 2023: Liquid Parcel Delivery

It can be a little confusing if you’re unfamiliar with sending liquids by courier. All these rules surrounding volumes and percentages might seem excessive. Still, they are there to help improve the safety of your parcel and others in the delivery network.

So you're up to speed, here is a quick update on shipping liquids with Interparcel and the range of suitable services we offer:

Which courier services accept liquid?

APC and Parcelforce are the only couriers we offer on our website that will accept liquid. Parcels containing liquid are only covered if they are sent on the below services:

APC

The APC Liquid courier services are dedicated fragile handling services designed for liquids like beer and wine.

APC Liquid

• UK Next Day delivery
• Maximum of 20 liquid items per package
• Packages are sorted by hand and held in separate cages to maximise protection
• Parcel collection from your door
• Suitable for parcels up to 30kg and max 120cm in length
• Expected delivery time of 1 working day
• £25 Transit Cover included free (can purchase Enhanced Cover up to a max of £1000)
• Printer required

APC Liquid Saturday

• UK Timed delivery
• Maximum of 20 liquid items per package
• Packages are sorted by hand and held in separate cages to maximise protection
• Parcel collection from your door
• Suitable for parcels up to 30kg and max 120cm in length
• Expected delivery time of 1 working day
• £25 Transit Cover included free (can purchase Enhanced Cover up to a max of £1000)
• Printer required

Parcelforce

Shipments sent on the Parcelforce Liquid services still travel through the regular Parcelforce network but are covered by loss or damage.

Parcelforce 48 Liquid Drop Off

• UK Economy delivery
• Liquids must not exceed 1 litre in volume
• Maximum of 5 litres per parcel
• Can send alcohol containing 24% or less ABV (above max limits apply)
• Can send alcohol up to 70% ABV (max two items per parcel)
• Drop off service at a local Post Office or Parcelforce depot
• Suitable for parcels up to 30kg and max 140cm in length
• Expected delivery time of 2 working days
• £25 Transit Cover included free (can purchase Enhanced Cover up to a max of £250)
• Printer required

Parcelforce Express 48 Liquid

• UK Economy delivery
• Liquids must not exceed 1 litre in volume
• Maximum of 5 litres per parcel
• Can send alcohol containing 24% or less ABV
• Parcel collection from your door
• Suitable for parcels up to 30kg and max 140cm in length
• Expected delivery time of 2 working days
• £25 Transit Cover included free (can purchase Enhanced Cover up to a max of £250)
• Printer required

What liquids are prohibited from shipment?

Below are some examples of items prohibited from shipment:

• Chemicals or solvents
• Flammable or corrosive liquids
• Perishable liquids
• Poisonous or toxic liquids

For a comprehensive list, view our Prohibited and Restricted Items guide. Please see our alcohol article for specific information on sending alcohol via courier.

How do I pack liquid items for shipping?

Items containing liquid must be well-packaged to withstand a slight tumble. Any wet, leaking parcels or parcels with an odour may be refused by the courier.

Five things we suggest you do to help you ship liquids safely:

1. Choose a suitably-sized strong cardboard outer box for the item

2. Wrap each bottle/container in polythene or sealed plastic bags with tape

3. Separate multiple containers with packaging or foam/corrugated dividers

4. Fill space in the box with protective cushioning materials like bubble wrap

5. Seal your box with waterproof packing tape and label your shipment clearly

Book a liquid delivery today!

Ready to get a quote?

Pop in your parcel details on our website and compare our selection of Liquid courier services for yourself. Our dedicated Liquid Delivery page has all the information you need to help you prepare and send liquids safely.

If you require assistance, contact one of our parcel experts who can help with your Interparcel booking. Customer service is available seven days a week via telephone, live chat and email.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational use only. You should always conduct your own research to verify the accuracy of this content. The information was accurate at the time of writing but may be subject to change.