Postal Service Guide: When to Use It and What Alternatives Work Best

If you need to send a package, the first question is usually: should I use the postal service or a courier? The answer depends on size, speed, cost, and where the item is going. Below you’ll find quick tips that help you decide, plus a few alternatives that may save you time and money.

When the Postal Service Makes Sense

Use the postal service for everyday items that aren’t urgent. A standard letter, a small parcel under 2 kg, or anything that fits in a regular envelope is cheap and reliable. In the UK, Royal Mail offers tracked 1st and 2nd class options that let you watch the package move without breaking the bank.

If you’re sending a gift to a friend across town, the postal service often beats a courier on price. The downside is the delivery window can be a few days longer, but for non‑time‑critical shipments that’s usually fine.

Another situation where post wins is bulk mailing. Businesses that send newsletters, catalogs, or promos can get volume discounts that couriers simply can’t match. The paperwork is a bit more involved, but the savings add up quickly.

Alternatives and How to Choose

When speed matters, compare courier rates side‑by‑side. Services like UPS, FedEx, and DHL all have next‑day or same‑day options. They’re pricier, but they also include real‑time tracking, guaranteed delivery times, and often better handling for fragile items.

For heavy or oversized parcels, couriers are usually the only real choice. UPS and FedEx both accept pallets, and they have clear size limits that the postal service can’t accommodate. Check the maximum package dimensions on the courier’s site before you pack.

Don’t overlook hybrid solutions. Some couriers partner with local post offices to drop off the last mile, which can lower costs while keeping delivery fast. Look for services that advertise “courier‑to‑post” handoff – you get the speed of a courier for the long haul and the low price of the postal service for the final stretch.

Finally, think about insurance. If you’re shipping something valuable, the postal service’s coverage caps at a low amount. Couriers usually let you buy extra insurance for a few pence per pound, which can be worth it for electronics, jewellery, or important documents.

Bottom line: start with the postal service for cheap, non‑urgent items. If you need speed, size, or extra protection, move to a courier or a hybrid option. By matching the right service to the right need, you’ll save money and avoid delivery headaches.