When sending parcels in the UK, understanding daily delivery deadlines is essential, especially for those relying on time-sensitive deliveries. Each courier has specific cut-off times and operational hours that influence when your parcel will be delivered. Below is an overview of five major UK couriers and their typical daily deadlines.

Top 5 Couriers for Fast and Reliable Delivery Services

1. Royal Mail

Royal Mail

Royal Mail remains one of the UK’s most commonly used postal services.

  • First-Class Mail aims for next-working-day delivery.
  • Tracked 24 and Special Delivery services generally require drop-off before 5 pm at local post offices or business collection points.
  • Deliveries are carried out from Monday to Saturday, excluding public holidays.

2. DPD

DPD is widely recognised for time-specific delivery slots and consistent tracking.

  • Drop-off or collection for next-day delivery typically needs to occur by 1 pm to 2 pm, depending on the location.
  • Delivery slots are usually scheduled within a one-hour window, with delivery often completed between 9 am and 6 pm.

3. Evri (formerly Hermes)

Evri (formerly Hermes)

Evri is a budget-friendly courier service operating seven days a week in many areas.

  • Evri’s standard delivery window is between 8 am and 8 pm, though deliveries can extend beyond this during busy periods.
  • For next-day delivery, parcels should be dropped off at ParcelShops or Lockers before 12 pm.
    To explore more about evri delivery end time, you can visit this guide: evri delivery end time.

4.  Amazon Logistics

Amazon operates its own delivery network for Prime and marketplace orders.

  • For eligible Prime orders, the cut-off time for next-day delivery can be as late as 7 pm to 10 pm, depending on the product and seller.
  • Most deliveries are scheduled between 5 pm and 9 pm, often aligning with customer-preferred delivery windows.

5. UPS

UPS

UPS provides both domestic and international parcel services with clear timing standards.

  • For UPS Next Day or Standard services, parcels are typically required to be dropped off or collected by 5 pm.
  • Deliveries are commonly made during regular business hours, typically between 9 am and 6 pm, Monday to Friday.

Overview Table: Courier Deadlines and Delivery Windows

Courier Drop-off Deadline Delivery Window
Royal Mail ~5 pm (local post office) Mon–Sat, working hours
DPD 1–2 pm (location dependent) Mon–Fri, 9 am–6 pm (1-hour slot)
Evri By 12 pm for next-day 8 am–8 pm (can extend during peak)
Amazon Logistics 7–10 pm (Prime orders) 5 pm–9 pm (mostly evening)
UPS By 5 pm Mon–Fri, 9 am–6 pm

Notes on Delivery Planning

  • Timing affects cost: Next-day services typically have earlier cut-offs and higher fees.
  • Public holidays and weekends: These can alter normal schedules, particularly with Royal Mail and UPS.
  • Volume spikes: During peak shopping seasons, couriers may extend delivery windows or shift standard procedures.
  • Local variations: Always check with your nearest depot or drop-off point for accurate cut-off times.

By aligning your dispatch activity with the courier’s cut-off times, you can ensure smoother and more predictable delivery outcomes.