In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of reliable courier services cannot be overstated. Last year, a staggering 5 billion parcels were delivered in the UK only.
But has this high demand compromised the quality that some delivery companies offer?
Before we answer this, if you are just looking for a competitive price from a reputable courier you can get an instant quote here.
In this article, we disclose the results of a review on some popular options to simply answer the question - What is the best courier service in the UK?
This impartial assessment has been carried out by the people that matter the most…
The customer!
So without any further ado, let's get into it…
Quick Summary
If you are in a rush and want to know the results of the review now then here they are.
The following 10 delivery companies have been listed in order of the best review score judged by customers on the reputable Trust Pilot as of March 2025.
| Rank | Courier | Trust Pilot Score | Trust Pilot Rating |
| 1 | Porta Delivery | 4.8 | Excellent |
| 2 | DPD | 4.6 | Excellent |
| 3 | Anyvan | 4.5 | Excellent |
| 4 | Evri | 4.2 | Great |
| 5 | Yodel | 4.1 | Great |
| 6 | TNT | 3.1 | Average |
| 7 | Parcelforce | 3 | Average |
| 8 | Royal Mail | 2.4 | Poor |
| 9 | UPS | 1.2 | Bad |
| 10 | Fedex | 1.2 | Bad |
As part of our research and analysis on the best delivery companies in the UK, we have created a tool that shows which courier services are most frequently searched for online by British users. Check it here by typing in a local town and see what couriers are searched for most:
How We Have Reviewed The Courier Services
To ensure we get an honest and unbiased review we have used a customer review service from a leading global brand, Trust Pilot.
Trust Pilot is well-known for its transparency and integrity and as such is a perfect partner to help ascertain the top-performing courier services in the UK.
Here is a quote from Anoop Joshi, the Chief Trust Officer at Trustpilot.
“We’re continually innovating to maintain our platform’s integrity, for the benefit of the whole Trustpilot community”
You can check out Trust Pilot's full transparency report here.
Other Qualities of a Decent Parcel Delivery Service
While genuine user reviews are invaluable, there are several other crucial factors to consider when identifying a top courier service. delivery. Here's what we (and customers we spoke to) see what's important:
1. Reliability
A truly reliable courier service is one you can set your watch by. They don't just deliver packages; they deliver peace of mind.
Before you finalise your decision, ensure you have found a service with a proven track record of on-time deliveries and careful handling.
The best couriers often boast glowing customer testimonials and consistently high ratings.
2. Transparency
Top-notch courier services lay all their cards on the table from the get-go.
This means upfront pricing without hidden fees, realistic delivery timescales, and real-time tracking that isn't complicated and actually works!
A commitment to keeping customers in the loop throughout the entire process is a sign of a company that cares!
3. Customer Service
Exceptional customer service goes beyond just having someone at the end of a phone line or staring at a PC.
It's about creating a frictionless experience from the moment you make contact to the moment your item is successfully delivered.
This includes user-friendly online tools, responsive support across multiple channels (phone, email, chat), and staff who are both knowledgeable, trained and have people skills.
The best services make you feel heard, valued, who actually listen and don't make you feel like just another tracking number in the system.
4. Coverage
A courier service worth its salt should offer extensive coverage, both geographically and in terms of service options.
It doesn't matter what you are sending and where, a good delivery company should be able to deliver a top-notch service that doesn't deviate if things are out of the norm.
5. Flexibility
Life doesn't always fit into a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither should your delivery service.
The cream of the crop offers options like weekend deliveries, same-day service for those last-minute rushes, and multiple re-delivery attempts.
This kind of flexibility is particularly crucial for businesses with diverse needs or individuals with unpredictable schedules.
6. Security
In an age where package theft is unfortunately common, security is very important.
Services that go the extra mile to protect your parcels are those that stand out from the crowd.
This might include features like real-time tracking with minute-by-minute updates, requiring signatures upon delivery, and offering comprehensive insurance options.
The best services make you feel as though your package is in a moving fortress and not just on a delivery van.
Tracking and taking care of parcels are important traits of a good delivery company
The Most Common Delivery Problems
Whilst we've explored the traits of top-tier courier services, it's equally important to mention common issues plaguing the less stellar operators.
Understanding these problems can help you make informed decisions and potentially sidestep frustrating experiences.
Let's dive into the delivery dilemmas that often crop up:
1. The Waiting Game
Nothing tests patience quite like a delayed parcel. Whilst factors like unexpected traffic, temperamental weather, or logistical hiccups can throw a spanner in the works, frequent delays are a red flag.
The best service providers not only offer real-time tracking but also proactively communicate any holdups, setting realistic expectations rather than leaving you in the dark.
Top Tip: When time is of the essence, consider services with guaranteed delivery windows or opt for expedited shipping options.
2. The Vanishing Act
It's the stuff of nightmares - your parcel seemingly vanishing into thin air. Whilst rare, lost parcels can cause significant stress and financial loss.
The better couriers have robust systems to track down wayward packages and offer fair compensation or swift re-delivery if the worst happens.
Top Tip: Always opt for services with comprehensive tracking and insurance options for valuable items.
3. Rough Rides
There's nothing quite as disheartening as opening a long-awaited parcel only to find its contents in pieces.
Whilst sometimes this boils down to poor packaging, a courier's handling practices play a crucial role too.
Services that offer specialised handling for fragile items and clear insurance policies are often the ones that have higher satisfaction rates amongst their customers.
Top Tip: When shipping delicate items remember to declare the item as fragile and mark it up with fragile tape if possible.
4. Wrong Turn
"Your parcel has been delivered!" - but not to you. Address mix-ups can lead to a frustrating game of parcel hide-and-seek.
Okay, sometimes this stems from sender error which happens, but a decent courier should have a verification process in place to catch potential mistakes.
Top Tip: Double-check all address details before shipping, and consider services that offer address verification features.
5. The Silent Treatment
In the age of instant information, radio silence from your courier service is particularly maddening.
Whether it's a lack of timely updates, failure to notify about delays, or difficulty reaching customer service, poor communication can turn a simple delivery into a stressful ordeal.
Top Tip: Prioritise couriers with multiple communication channels and a reputation for responsive customer service.
6. The Fine Print Fiasco
Nothing sours a delivery experience quite like unexpected costs.
Some less reputable services might tack on hidden fees for everything from fuel surcharges to "handling" fees, leaving you with invoice shock.
These sort of services are often found out in their reviews so ensure you check these out before choosing.
Top Tip: Always read the terms and conditions carefully, and opt for services that offer transparent, upfront pricing.
7. The Doorstep Dash
We've all experienced the frustration of missing a delivery by mere minutes.
Whilst some delivery companies go the extra mile with multiple attempt policies and flexible rescheduling, others might make a single, cursory attempt before whisking your parcel back to the depot with an additional fee to re-deliver.
If this is in the small print, avoid it at all costs.
Top Tip: Look for services offering multiple delivery attempts or the option to redirect to a pickup point.
Incorrectly delivered parcels are one of the top complaints against UK courier services
What Type Of Services Do The Best Delivery Companies Offer
The most reputable delivery companies distinguish themselves by offering a diverse array of services tailored to meet the varied needs of their clientele.
These firms understand that the modern consumer requires flexibility and specialisation in logistics solutions.
As such, they have developed a comprehensive suite of services that go far beyond the traditional parcel delivery model.
At the forefront of this service expansion are specialised offerings such as furniture and appliance courier services, which cater to the unique challenges posed by large, valuable items requiring careful handling and precise delivery scheduling.
Additionally, innovative services that deliver awkward items such as bikes for example have emerged as a modern-day favourite amongst customers.
For those requiring a balance between capacity and flexibility, many top-tier companies now offer a man-in-a-van service, providing a versatile solution for medium-sized loads or office relocations.
These tailored services exemplify the industry's commitment to adapting to consumer demands and enhancing the overall delivery experience.
Furniture delivery couriers are another customer favourite
The Best UK Courier Service Results
So having gone through how we have assessed the most popular courier firms in the UK as well as ascertaining what traits actual users look for in a top-notch delivery company, it’s now time to disclose the results of our review.
The following is a list of the 10 firms assessed with a brief introduction, how they scored and some actual customer feedback:
#1. Porta Delivery
Overall Trustpilot score: 4.7 / 5
Porta Delivery is an innovative, crowdsourced delivery service that is making waves in the UK market, especially for large, bulky deliveries.
What sets Porta Delivery apart is its commitment to sustainability and affordability. By utilising a network of local, independent drivers, Porta Delivery offers low-emission delivery options, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
The service is particularly well-suited for businesses and individuals looking for an affordable, green alternative for delivering large items.
Porta Delivery’s platform is user-friendly, allowing you to easily book, track, and manage deliveries through their app or website.
The pricing is highly competitive, thanks to their crowdsourced model, which cuts down on traditional overhead costs.
This makes Porta Delivery an excellent option for those seeking a cost-effective solution without compromising on service quality or environmental impact.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About Porta Delivery:
- Very cost effective
- Eco-Friendly
- Great customer service
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Relatively unknown compared to the established firms
Porta Delivery Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - Porta are an up and coming courier company that is innovative and excels in customer service.
You can check out Porta Delivery Here.
#2. DPD
Overall Trustpilot score: 4.6 / 5
DPD is a multinational parcel delivery company that has established itself as a global leader in the industry.
With a presence in over 230 countries and territories, DPD offers a wide range of delivery services to meet the needs of both individuals and businesses.
DPD's vast network of delivery depots and couriers ensures efficient and timely delivery of parcels to almost any location worldwide.
The company is known for its commitment to reliability and efficiency, employing advanced tracking systems and sophisticated logistics to ensure parcels arrive on time.
DPD offers a range of delivery options, including standard, express, and premium services, to cater to different customer needs and budgets.
The company places a high priority on customer satisfaction, providing excellent customer support and striving to deliver a positive experience for its customers.
DPD's global network enables it to deliver parcels to almost any destination, making it a popular choice for businesses that ship internationally.
Overall, DPD is a trusted and reliable parcel delivery company that offers a comprehensive range of services to customers around the world.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About DPD:
- Reliable and timely deliveries, consistently meeting promised time frames.
- Friendly and helpful drivers, often praised for professionalism and care.
- Clear communication with updates, making it easy to manage delivery schedules.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Customer service responsiveness needs improvement
- Delivery accuracy and driver accountability issues
DPD Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - DPD is a reliable and globally trusted parcel delivery company known for timely deliveries, a wide range of service options, and a strong international presence.
#3. Anyvan
Overall Trustpilot score: 4.5 / 5
Anyvan is a budget-friendly online marketplace that connects customers with drivers who have spare van space.
This innovative approach offers competitive pricing for home removals, furniture transport, car shipping, and more.
By eliminating unnecessary empty miles, AnyVan provides an efficient and cost-effective solution for moving large or odd-sized items.
Customers can easily obtain quotes online and choose from a variety of drivers offering flexible collection and delivery times.
While some packing responsibilities might fall to the customer, AnyVan's platform offers a convenient and affordable way to move items of all sizes.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About Anyvan:
- Professional and friendly drivers who handle goods with care and efficiency.
- Easy booking process with accurate delivery tracking and clear communication.
- Punctual and accommodating service, even in challenging locations or circumstances.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Poor customer service with unhelpful and rude representatives, leading to unresolved issues.
- Hidden or extra charges on delivery day, creating frustration for customers.
Anyvan Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - AnyVan is a budget-friendly platform offering efficient and flexible moving services with professional drivers, but it faces criticism for poor customer service and unexpected extra charges.
You can check out Anyvans service here.
#4. Evri
Overall Trustpilot score: 4.2 / 5
Evri, formerly known as Hermes, is a leading parcel delivery company in the UK.
With a vast network of couriers, ParcelShops, and Lockers, Evri offers a wide range of delivery services to individuals and businesses.
Evri has a dense network of couriers, ParcelShops, and Lockers across the UK, making it easy for customers to send and receive parcels.
The company offers various delivery options, including standard delivery, next-day delivery, and international delivery, to suit different customer needs.
Customers can track their parcels online in real-time, providing them with peace of mind and visibility into the delivery process.
Evri's network of ParcelShops and Lockers offers convenient options for customers to collect and return parcels at their convenience.
The company provides tailored business solutions, including bulk delivery services, returns management, and international shipping, to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Evri has a strong focus on customer satisfaction and strives to provide a reliable and efficient delivery service.
With its extensive network, convenient options, and commitment to customer service, Evri is a popular choice for both personal and business parcel delivery needs in the UK.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About Evri:
- Friendly and helpful delivery drivers who go above and beyond in providing excellent customer service.
- Reliable and timely deliveries with good communication and tracking updates.
- Careful handling of parcels, ensuring items are delivered in good condition.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Poor customer service with slow or no responses to customer inquiries, leading to unresolved issues.
- Frequent delivery issues, including lost, damaged, or delayed parcels, and improper parcel handling such as leaving items in unsafe locations.
Evri's Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - Evri is a widely used UK parcel delivery service known for friendly drivers and convenient delivery options, but it faces challenges with inconsistent customer service and frequent delivery issues like lost or damaged parcels.
You can check out Evri's service here
#5. Yodel
Overall Trustpilot score: 4.1 / 5
Yodel is a leading parcel delivery company in the UK, offering a range of services to individuals and businesses.
With a focus on reliability and convenience, Yodel has a strong presence across the country.
Yodel has a vast network of delivery depots and couriers throughout the UK, ensuring widespread coverage and efficient delivery.
The company offers a range of delivery services, including standard delivery, next-day delivery, and international delivery, to meet different customer needs.
Customers can track their parcels online in real-time, providing them with visibility into the delivery process.
Yodel operates a network of ParcelShops and Lockers, offering convenient options for customers to collect and return parcels.
Yodel provides tailored business solutions, including bulk delivery services, returns management, and international shipping, to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Yodel is committed to delivering a high-quality service and strives to exceed customer expectations.
With its extensive network, convenient options, and focus on reliability, Yodel is a trusted choice for parcel delivery in the UK.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About Yodel:
- Yodel provides real-time tracking and regular parcel updates.
- Drivers are described as friendly, polite, and professional.
- Deliveries are timely, with parcels often arriving in good condition.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Delayed and inaccurate tracking information.
- Improper handling of parcels and failure to follow delivery instructions.
Yodel's Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - Yodel is a UK parcel delivery company praised for friendly drivers and real-time tracking, but it faces criticism for delayed tracking updates and mishandled parcels.
You can check out Yodels service here
#6. UPS
Overall Trustpilot score: 3.1 / 5
UPS, a global leader in shipping and logistics, offers a wide range of delivery services to individuals and businesses in the UK.
Known for its reliability and efficiency, UPS has a strong presence across the country.
UPS has a vast network of delivery depots and couriers, ensuring widespread coverage and efficient delivery.
The company offers a range of delivery services, including standard delivery, next-day delivery, and international delivery, to meet different customer needs.
Customers can track their parcels online in real-time, providing them with visibility into the delivery process.
UPS operates a network of Access Points, offering convenient options for customers to collect and return parcels.
UPS provides tailored business solutions, including bulk delivery services, returns management, and international shipping, to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
UPS is committed to delivering a high-quality service and strives to exceed customer expectations.
With its extensive network, convenient options, and focus on reliability, UPS is a trusted choice for parcel delivery in the UK.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About UPS:
- Reliable tracking and timely updates.
- Friendly and professional drivers.
- Efficient service with careful handling of packages.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Inconsistent delivery times and poor communication.
- Drivers refusing to complete deliveries under difficult conditions.
- Unhelpful customer service and lack of follow-up on issues.
UPS Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - UPS is a global leader in shipping and logistics, known for reliable tracking, efficient service, and friendly drivers, but it faces criticism for inconsistent delivery times, poor communication, and unhelpful customer service.
7. Parcelforce
Overall Trustpilot score: 3.0 / 5
Parcelforce, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Royal Mail, is a leading parcel delivery company in the UK, offering a wide range of services to individuals and businesses.
With a strong focus on reliability and efficiency, Parcelforce has a long-standing reputation for delivering parcels on time.
Parcelforce has a vast network of delivery depots and couriers throughout the UK, ensuring widespread coverage and efficient delivery.
The company offers a range of delivery services, including standard delivery, next-day delivery, and international delivery, to meet different customer needs.
Customers can track their parcels online in real-time, providing them with visibility into the delivery process.
Parcelforce operates a network of Post Offices, offering convenient options for customers to collect and return parcels.
Parcelforce provides tailored business solutions, including bulk delivery services, returns management, and international shipping, to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Parcelforce is committed to delivering a high-quality service and strives to exceed customer expectations.
With its extensive network, convenient options, and focus on reliability, Parcelforce is a trusted choice for parcel delivery in the UK.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About Parcelforce:
- Reliable and timely deliveries with easy-to-use online booking and tracking.
- Courteous, professional drivers who follow specific delivery instructions.
- Convenient collection services and competitive pricing, often preferred over third-party providers.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Frequent delivery delays and mismanagement of packages.
- Poor communication and inconsistent tracking information.
Parcelforce Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - Parcelforce is a reliable delivery service known for its efficient deliveries, helpful customer support, and convenient collection options, though there are occasional issues with delivery delays and inconsistent tracking updates.
You can check out Parcelforce here
#8. Royal Mail
Overall Trustpilot score: 2.4 / 5
Royal Mail is a well-known postal service in the UK, offering a wide range of services, including letter and parcel delivery.
While primarily focused on letter delivery, Royal Mail also provides parcel delivery services, including standard, next-day, and international options.
Customers can track their parcels online in real-time, and Royal Mail operates a vast network of Post Offices, offering convenient options for customers to collect and return parcels.
Royal Mail is committed to delivering a reliable and efficient service, and with its extensive network and long-standing reputation, it remains a popular choice for postal services in the UK.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About Royal Mail:
- Consistently reliable and friendly postmen who go above and beyond.
- Efficient tracking system with timely deliveries and easy-to-use online services.
- Exceptional customer service, including prompt handling of claims and helpful support agents.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Lost or delayed parcels, even for premium services like Special Delivery.
- False delivery attempts and poor customer service.
Royal Mail's Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - Royal Mail offers reliable postal services with friendly postmen and efficient tracking, but customers have reported issues with lost parcels, false delivery attempts, and poor customer service.
You can check out Royal Mails service here
#9. TNT
Overall Trustpilot score: 1.4 / 5
TNT is a global express delivery company that offers a wide range of services, including parcel delivery, express shipping, and freight forwarding.
While it has a strong presence in many countries, its operations in the UK have been integrated with FedEx.
As a result, TNT services are now offered under the FedEx brand in the UK. Customers seeking TNT services can find them through FedEx's network and offerings.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About TNT:
- Friendly and professional drivers who go above and beyond to help customers.
- Efficient and timely deliveries with real-time tracking updates.
- Excellent customer service, often resolving issues quickly and courteously.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Lost packages and delayed deliveries, with lack of clear communication.
- Poor customer service and unprofessional handling of items.
TNT Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - TNT is a global courier company known for providing efficient services and helpful, friendly drivers. However, it faces challenges such as frequent delivery delays, lost packages, and customer service issues, especially in its UK operations.
You can check out TNTs service here
#10. Fedex
Overall Trustpilot score: 1.2 / 5
FedEx is a global leader in shipping and logistics, offering a wide range of delivery services to individuals and businesses.
In the UK, FedEx provides a variety of options, including parcel delivery, express shipping, and freight forwarding.
According to the firm they have a strong focus on reliability and efficiency and a vast network of delivery depots and couriers throughout the country.
Customers can track their parcels online in real-time and benefit from FedEx's convenient drop-off locations.
FedEx also offers tailored business solutions, including bulk delivery services, returns management, and international shipping.
Overall Score Summary Chart:
What Customers Like About Fedex:
- Friendly and professional customer service that goes above and beyond.
- Timely deliveries with packages arriving earlier than expected.
- Reliable drivers who are considerate and attentive to customer needs.
What Customers Say Can Be Improved:
- Complaints about unhelpful customer service and lack of follow-up on issues.
- Delivery estimates frequently change, causing frustration for customers.
Fedex Review Summary
The Bottom Line: - FedEx is a global shipping leader known for its range of delivery services and efficient logistics. However, customers often report issues with delivery delays, changing estimates, and unhelpful customer support, contributing to its low customer satisfaction.
Overall Score Summary Of All The Delivery Couriers Reviewed
Here is a table that summarises all of the scores that the courier services have been given for the important quality raters in this review.
The scores are out of 100 with the customer service score being derived by Trust Pilot reviews:
| Courier | Customer Service /100 | Cost Effectiveness /100 | Speed Of Delivery /100 | Tracking & Technology /100 | Emissions /100 | Ease Of Use /100 |
| Porta Delivery | 94 | 95 | 80 | 80 | 95 | 95 |
| DPD | 92 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 60 | 85 |
| Anyvan | 90 | 90 | 80 | 80 | 90 | 85 |
| Evri | 84 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 70 | 95 |
| Yodel | 82 | 75 | 90 | 75 | 60 | 75 |
| UPS | 62 | 75 | 90 | 90 | 60 | 70 |
| Parcelforce | 60 | 70 | 90 | 85 | 60 | 75 |
| Royal Mail | 48 | 75 | 60 | 80 | 60 | 80 |
| TNT | 28 | 65 | 90 | 90 | 60 | 60 |
| Fedex | 24 | 60 | 90 | 90 | 60 | 70 |
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of UK courier services, customer satisfaction remains the ultimate measure of success.
This comprehensive review, based on real customer feedback, reveals that Porta Delivery lead the pack with exceptional service quality, innovative approaches, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Porta Delivery use a crowdsourced driver model which matches you with couriers already planning the journey for low-cost and reliable deliveries.
Porta has three main benefits vs other companies:
1.) Lowest prices due to the crowdsourced model; drivers will have other items in their van, lowering the cost per item
2.) Neutral emissions as drivers are making the journey anyway
3.) Fast and easy-to-use platform
Why not get an instant price today!