10 July 2026 · 4 min read
UK fulfilment vs self-shipping: cost breakdown
3PL fulfilment promises freedom; it also costs more than you think. Here is the real break-even.
What a UK 3PL costs in 2026
Pick & pack: £1.50–£3.50 per order. Storage: £4–£8 per pallet/week. Inbound: £20–£40 per pallet. Postage: at their negotiated rate (often 15–25% cheaper than your own).
Self-ship economics
Your time matters. £15/hr × 30 mins per order = £7.50 — way more than a 3PL on its own.
Where 3PLs lose
Custom packaging, hand-written notes, brand experience. Hybrid models (3PL for standard, self-ship for VIP) are common.
FAQ
When should I outsource fulfilment?
Typically at 30–50 orders/day, or whenever your time on packing exceeds 2 hours.
Do 3PLs do returns?
Yes — usually £2–£4 per return inspect and restock.
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