Best Courier Rates: How to Find Cheap Shipping and Save Money

1. Compare, Compare, Compare

The first thing most people skip is a quick price check. Even if you usually use the same carrier, a fast comparison can save up to 30%.

Enter the package weight, dimensions, and destination into the online calculators for UPS, FedEx, DHL, and the national post.

Look for “economy” or “ground” options that are slower but far cheaper.

Don’t forget regional players – many UK couriers offer special rates for local drops.

When you line up the numbers side by side, the cheapest choice often jumps out.

2. Use Business Accounts and Discount Codes

If you ship regularly, opening a business account is a must. Carriers give you a base discount of 10‑15% just for signing up. Combine that with seasonal promo codes and you’ll see double‑digit savings.

Even occasional shippers should look for “pay‑as‑you‑go” deals. Websites that aggregate courier services often have exclusive coupons. A quick Google search for “courier discount code 2025” can surface a 5‑10% off coupon that applies to your next shipment.

Another hidden gem is to bundle services. If you need both pickup and delivery, ask the carrier for a “combined service” price. Many will shave a few pounds off the total.

Now that you’ve got the basics, let’s talk about the little things that add up.

Packaging choices matter. A lightweight box or a padded envelope can cut both weight and dimensional fees. Measure your package accurately; every extra inch can trigger a higher charge.

If you can, schedule your drop‑offs during off‑peak hours. Some couriers lower fees for weekday mornings when their trucks aren’t full yet.

Lastly, track your spend. Keep a simple spreadsheet of carrier, route, weight, and cost. After a month you’ll spot patterns – maybe DHL is cheap for international parcels, but UPS wins on domestic ground.

Putting these steps together gives you a repeatable process. Compare rates, grab discounts, choose smart packaging, and watch your shipping bill shrink.

Ready to test it out? Grab the next package you need to send, follow the checklist, and you’ll probably end up paying less than half of what you expected. Cheap courier rates are within reach – you just have to look for them.