Shipping a large or bulky item can be more complex than sending a standard parcel. Whether it’s a fridge, a sofa, or a commercial delivery, large package delivery services require special handling, customized vehicles, and thoughtful planning. For both businesses and individuals, understanding the expected delivery timeline and knowing how insurance coverage works are essential for ensuring your goods arrive safely and on time. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before booking your next large package delivery.
What Is Large Package Delivery?
Large package delivery refers to the transportation of goods that exceed standard parcel size or weight limits. These items often include:
- Furniture (sofas, beds, cabinets)
- Appliances (washing machines, fridges)
- Sports/gym equipment
- Commercial stock or tools
- Electronics, musical instruments, or fragile items
Due to their dimensions or weight (typically over 30 kg or 120 cm in any direction), large packages require special handling, vehicles, and sometimes multiple delivery personnel.
Delivery Timelines: How Long Does Large Package Delivery Take?
The time it takes for a large item to be delivered depends on various factors, including service type, distance, courier capacity, and destination (urban or rural). Here’s a general breakdown:
Express Delivery (Same-day / Next-day)
- Ideal for: Urgent or business-critical items
- Timeframe: 0–2 days
- Availability: Often limited to metro or nearby areas
- Couriers Offering This: Zig Couriers, DHL Express, UPS Express
Standard Delivery
- Ideal for: Non-urgent but time-sensitive deliveries
- Timeframe: 2–5 business days
- Availability: Nationwide and regional
- Couriers Offering This: Zig Couriers, FedEx Ground, AnyVan
International Delivery
- Ideal for: Cross-border commercial or personal shipments
- Timeframe: 5–10 business days (can vary with customs)
- Couriers Offering This: DHL, UPS, FedEx International
Factors That Can Affect Delivery Timelines:
- Distance between pickup and drop-off
- Availability of vehicle and staff for large item handling
- Access to delivery location (e.g., stairs, narrow paths)
- Weekend or holiday scheduling
- Weather or traffic delays
Pro tip: Always confirm the delivery estimate before booking and ask if guaranteed or only estimated.
Insurance for Large Package Deliveries: What’s Covered?
Shipping a large or valuable item? Don’t skip the insurance. While many couriers offer basic liability, it often doesn’t cover the full value of the item, especially for damage.
Standard Liability Coverage
- Often included automatically
- Typically capped (e.g., £50–£100)
- May not apply if the parcel was poorly packaged
Add-On Insurance (Recommended)
- Covers full or declared value of the goods
- Can be added per parcel or shipment
- Cost usually 1–3% of item’s value
What’s Typically Covered?
- Theft or loss of parcel
- Damage during transit or loading/unloading
- Accidents in transit (road, warehouse)
What’s Not Covered?
- Poor packaging
- Pre-existing damage
- Prohibited items (e.g., fragile glass not declared)
- Force majeure events (e.g., floods, riots—unless specified)
Important: Always read the insurance terms and conditions. Some couriers like Zig Couriers provide insurance options with enhanced protection tailored for bulky or high-value items.
Example Scenario: Large Package with Insurance
Item: Dining Table (Wooden, £600)
Courier: Zig Couriers
Service: 2-day standard delivery
Base Cost: £75
Insurance (full coverage): £12
Total: £87
Delivery Guarantee: Yes, scheduled with proof of delivery
Best Practices for Safe & Insured Large Package Delivery
- Take accurate measurements – weight and dimensions
- Package securely – use padding, foam, or pallets if needed
- Label clearly – with “Fragile,” “Heavy,” or orientation instructions
- Photograph the item before shipping – for insurance claims
- Opt for insurance – especially for items worth £100+
Couriers That Handle Large Package Delivery with Insurance
| Courier | Delivery Time | Insurance Options | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zig Couriers | Same-day to 5 days | Full value optional | Furniture, appliances |
| DHL Express | 1–5 days (global) | Tiered insurance | Fragile, high-value international goods |
| UPS | 1–7 days | Basic included, upgrade available | Commercial or eCommerce |
| FedEx Freight | 2–5 days | Insurance + tracking | B2B and pallet deliveries |
| Shiply / AnyVan | 2–7 days | Courier dependent | Household bulky items |
Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Ship Safely
Shipping large packages requires more than just size-appropriate transport. You also need realistic delivery timelines and the right insurance to ensure peace of mind. Whether you’re a homeowner sending furniture, a business shipping equipment, or an online seller moving stock—large package delivery can be safe, efficient, and affordable if you plan ahead.
Ready to ship something big? Zig Couriers offers UK-wide large package delivery with full insurance options and flexible timelines. Book now or request a quote today!