Pickup Parcel Price – What You Need to Know
When you need a courier to come to your door, the first thing on your mind is usually the price. Pickup parcel price depends on a handful of clear factors, so you can actually predict the cost before you book. Below we break down the main drivers, give you a snapshot of typical UK rates, and share quick tricks to save money on every collection.
What Affects the Cost of a Parcel Pickup?
Most couriers charge a base fee for the service, then add extra charges based on weight, distance, and any special handling. A small 2 kg parcel collected from a city centre might cost £5‑£8, while a 20 kg box from a suburb could be £15‑£25. The biggest cost spikes happen when you request a same‑day or after‑hours pickup – those are premium services that add a flat surcharge.
Other things that change the price are:
- Pickup location: business addresses usually cost less than residential ones because they’re easier to access.
- Number of parcels: many couriers bundle up to five parcels in one request for a single fee.
- Time window: a narrow window (e.g., “pick up between 9‑10 am”) is pricier than a broad one.
- Special items: fragile, hazardous, or temperature‑controlled goods need extra packaging and handling fees.
Typical UK Prices from Major Couriers
Here’s a quick look at what the big players charge for a standard pickup (prices are approximate and can vary by region):
- Dex Removals & Logistics Services: £4‑£6 for parcels up to 5 kg, £10‑£12 for 5‑10 kg, plus £2 for each extra parcel beyond the first.
- UPS: £5‑£7 for parcels under 5 kg, £12‑£14 for 5‑15 kg, plus a £3 surcharge for after‑hours.
- FedEx: £6‑£8 for up to 5 kg, £13‑£16 for 5‑12 kg, with a £2.50 fee for collections on weekends.
- DHL: £5.50‑£7.50 for small parcels, £11‑£13 for medium parcels, plus a £4 premium for next‑day pickups.
These numbers give you a baseline. Your exact quote will depend on the details you provide, so always ask for a breakdown before confirming.
Tips to Keep Your Pickup Costs Low
1. Combine shipments: If you have several small parcels, bundle them into one request. Most couriers lower the per‑parcel fee when you send a batch.
2. Pick flexible windows: Allow the courier a 2‑hour window instead of a 30‑minute slot. The price drop is usually noticeable.
3. Use a business address: If possible, schedule pickups to a work location. Residential pickups often include extra handling fees.
4. Plan ahead: Book at least 24‑48 hours in advance. Same‑day requests attract premium rates.
5. Check for online discounts: Many couriers offer a lower rate when you book through their website or app.
How to Book a Pickup with Dex Removals
Getting a quote from Dex is straightforward. Just give us the parcel weight, dimensions, pickup address, and preferred time window. We’ll email you a clear price breakdown within minutes. If you have multiple parcels, let us know and we’ll bundle them into a single, cheaper charge.
Ready to schedule? Call us or fill out the short online form, and we’ll lock in a price that matches your budget.
Understanding pickup parcel price helps you avoid surprises and keep your shipping budget in check. Use the tips above, compare a few couriers, and pick the option that gives you the best value for your specific needs.
June 27, 2025
Evelyn Wescott
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Learn exactly how much it costs to have a parcel collected in 2025, with tips, honest breakdowns, and the little extras that can leave you surprised at checkout.
