Shipping large or bulky parcels doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re a small business owner, an eCommerce seller, or an individual looking to send a one-time oversized item, choosing the right large parcel courier is essential. This comprehensive guide will explore how to find affordable courier services for large parcels, compare top-rated providers, and show you how to cut costs while ensuring safe and timely delivery. We also highlight one trusted name in the UK logistics market: Zig Couriers.
What Is Considered a Large Parcel?
Before booking a courier, it’s crucial to understand what qualifies as a “large” parcel. Although definitions vary slightly between courier companies, large parcels generally fall into the following criteria:
- Weight: Over 30–50 kg (66–110 lbs)
- Length: More than 120 cm (47 inches)
- Girth: Combined measurement (L + 2W + 2H) over 300 cm
Such parcels may trigger oversize fees, require freight handling, or need special packaging. Many couriers place additional surcharges on these items, so getting accurate quotes upfront is essential.
Top Affordable Large Parcel Courier Services (2025)
Here’s a detailed comparison of affordable courier services in the UK and globally, including our featured provider: Zig Couriers.
| Courier | Max Weight | Max Size | Starting Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zig Couriers (UK) | 50+ kg | Oversized items | Custom Quote | Domestic large parcel delivery |
| Parcel2Go | 50+ kg | Up to 2.5m | £20–£60+ | Courier comparison site |
| DHL Economy Select | 70 kg | Large parcels | £50–£100 | International delivery |
| FedEx Ground (US) | 68+ kg | 274 cm length | £60+ | USA heavy parcel shipping |
| DPD Local | 30 kg | 100x70x70 cm | £15–£40 | Small to mid-size bulky items |
| Evri (Heavy Items) | Up to 45 kg | 120x80x80 cm | £10–£25 | Budget UK delivery |
Why Choose Zig Couriers for Large Parcel Delivery?
Zig Couriers is a UK-based courier service that specializes in reliable, flexible, and cost-effective shipping solutions. They cater specifically to customers with unusual or oversized delivery needs.
🔹 Key Benefits:
- Custom Pricing: Tailored quotes for large and non-standard parcels
- Flexible Scheduling: Same-day, next-day, and scheduled deliveries
- UK-Wide Coverage: Ideal for businesses, retailers, and personal senders
- Dedicated Support: Personalized service and real-time updates
- Trusted by Businesses: Used by retail, manufacturing, and logistics companies
Zig Couriers is especially beneficial for businesses looking for bespoke courier services outside the limits of traditional courier networks.
How to Minimize Large Parcel Shipping Costs
Large parcel delivery can be expensive, but with the right strategies, you can reduce unnecessary charges. Here’s how:
1. Get Accurate Quotes
Use courier websites or aggregator platforms to compare prices. For UK senders, Zig Couriers offers custom quotes based on parcel size, weight, and delivery urgency.
2. Optimize Packaging
Couriers use dimensional weight pricing. Oversized boxes with too much air space cost more.
- Use tight, efficient packaging
- Avoid unnecessarily large boxes
- Reinforce packaging for heavy goods
3. Use Aggregators When Needed
Platforms like Parcel2Go and Shiply offer instant comparisons across multiple couriers. However, for better service quality, use direct providers like Zig Couriers for complex or large shipments.
4. Book Online & Prepay
Booking online often comes with:
- Discounted rates
- Paperless tracking
- Scheduled pickup
5. Ship Off-Peak
Avoid weekends or peak holiday periods. Mid-week bookings usually offer lower pricing and faster dispatch.
Best Couriers by Shipping Scenario
Depending on your delivery needs, here’s a breakdown of the best couriers for different types of large parcel shipments:
| Scenario | Courier | Why |
| Furniture delivery within the UK | Zig Couriers | Personalized, oversized item specialists |
| Heavy eCommerce parcel delivery | Evri / Zig Couriers | Cost-effective + reliable tracking |
| Exporting large parcels overseas | DHL, FedEx | Customs experience + insurance options |
| Marketplace/Bulk sellers | Parcel2Go | Multiple courier comparison tool |
| One-off large item sender | Zig Couriers | Friendly, hands-on customer service |
Hidden Charges to Watch Out For
When sending large parcels, always check for:
- Fuel surcharges
- Remote area delivery fees
- Failed delivery re-attempt costs
- Insurance exclusions
- Oversize handling surcharges
Zig Couriers provides transparent pricing with no surprise costs, making them ideal for senders who want peace of mind.
Regular Shipping? Negotiate Rates!
If you’re a business sending 10+ large parcels monthly, request custom bulk rates. Zig Couriers is known for working closely with repeat clients to deliver personalized, cost-saving courier contracts.
Final Tips Before Sending Your Large Parcel
- Always measure accurately: use a measuring tape and digital scale
- Photograph the parcel before dispatch for insurance purposes
- Label clearly: Include “Fragile”, “Heavy”, or “This Way Up” if needed
- Print your shipping label and track your parcel from pickup to delivery
- Use Zig Couriers‘ customer support if you need shipping advice
Conclusion: Choose Smart, Ship Smart
Finding an affordable large parcel courier doesn’t mean compromising on reliability. Whether you’re shipping a one-off oversized item or need regular business logistics support, services like Zig Couriers offer cost-effective, trustworthy, and tailored courier solutions.
Take time to compare, pack efficiently, and choose the right service for your needs—and you’ll be saving time and money on every shipment.