12 June 2026 · 4 min read
How to send a large or heavy parcel (20kg+) in the UK
Standard couriers get expensive past 20 kg. Here is what to do with anything bulky or heavy.
Courier weight limits
Royal Mail caps at 20 kg. Evri caps at 15 kg. DPD goes to 30 kg per parcel but charges heavily over 25 kg. Parcelforce will take up to 30 kg standard, 60 kg on Pallet services.
Split or pallet?
Two 15 kg parcels usually beat one 30 kg parcel on price, but only if your item can be split. For unbreakable single items, look at pallet services or a dedicated driver.
When a dedicated driver wins
A driver with a van charges by route, not by kilo. A 40 kg single item moving 50 miles is often £40–£70 with a dedicated driver versus £80+ on pallet.
FAQ
What is the maximum parcel weight in the UK?
Standard courier networks cap at 30 kg per parcel. Above that you need pallet, freight, or a man-and-van.
Do I need to strap heavy items?
Yes. Anything over 15 kg should be on a pallet or strapped to one for courier handling.
Ready to send something?
Get a quote in 7 seconds