To send a large parcel, pack it in a strong double-walled box, weigh it, measure all three sides, then check the result against each carrier’s size and weight limits. Within the limits, a parcel network is usually cheapest. Beyond them, or when it must arrive today, book a van courier. First Choice Transportation Ltd explains each step below.
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The same steps apply to any big parcel or bulky box you post, whether it is a single item for a buyer or stock for a customer.
Furniture, mirrors, artwork and machinery often cannot be boxed at all. Those go by van, wrapped rather than boxed: see our large item courier service.
The main UK networks publish these limits for a single parcel. They change, so check with the carrier before you book.
| Carrier service | Maximum weight | Maximum size |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Mail (UK parcels) | 20kg | 61 x 46 x 46cm |
| Evri large parcel | 15kg | 120cm long |
| DHL eCommerce UK, extra large | 25kg | 120 x 70 x 70cm |
| Parcelforce Worldwide | 30kg | 2.5m long, 4m length and girth combined |
| Van courier (First Choice Transportation) | No per-parcel limit, by vehicle | Car or small van, long wheelbase or Luton van; HGV by quote |
Limits as published by each carrier, checked October 2026. Girth is twice the width plus twice the height.
The cheapest way to send a large parcel depends on whether it fits a network’s limits:
Our van prices are on the courier prices page: £40 for the first 10 miles then £1.25 a mile in a car or small van, £60 then £1.80 a mile in a long wheelbase or Luton van, plus VAT.
Thirty kilograms is where most parcel networks stop, because their depots sort parcels by conveyor and their drivers lift them alone. Over that, you have three choices:
For heavy and awkward items see our large item courier page; for furniture, the furniture courier page.
For UK parcels, Royal Mail’s published limit is 20kg and 61cm by 46cm by 46cm. Anything longer or heavier needs another service: Parcelforce, which is part of the Royal Mail group, takes up to 30kg and 2.5 metres long, and beyond that you need a courier with a van.
Pack it in a double-walled box, weigh it and measure all three sides. At 20kg it fits most networks’ heavier services, including Royal Mail’s limit if the box is no bigger than 61 by 46 by 46cm. Compare prices on a booking site, print the label and book a collection or drop-off.
Most parcel networks stop at 30kg per item, so split the load into several boxes if you can. If you cannot, because it is one heavy object, book a van courier. The item is loaded by hand, travels on its own and is delivered by the same driver, with no conveyor or depot sorting.
Length is the longest side. Girth is the distance around the parcel at its widest point, measured at right angles to the length: twice the width plus twice the height. Add the length to the girth to get the figure carriers quote, such as Parcelforce’s 4 metre combined limit.
Usually not for a single box within the network’s limits; a parcel service is often cheaper. A dedicated van is better value when the item is too big, too heavy or too fragile for a network, when several boxes must arrive together, or when it has to be delivered the same day.
Yes. We collect within 30 to 45 minutes across London and the Home Counties, and within 45 minutes to an hour elsewhere in the UK, 24 hours a day. The price is £40 for the first 10 miles, then £1.25 a mile in a car or small van, plus VAT. Call 020 8202 2008.
First Choice Transportation Ltd is a registered UK company (No. 15276847) based in Southgate, North London, founded by Allam, who has 15 years’ experience in courier and transport work, with 30 drivers across the UK.
£40 for the first 10 miles, then £1.25 a mile in a car or small van, plus VAT.
30 to 45 minutes across London and the Home Counties; 45 minutes to an hour elsewhere, 24 hours a day.
No depots or conveyors: the driver helps load it, and it is the only job in the vehicle.
Signature and photo on handover, texted to you.
