We all like to think we’re organised – until the moment we desperately need a package delivered yesterday.
That’s when couriers become the true MVPs, dashing through London’s traffic chaos like logistical superheroes.
We’ve tested, researched, and maybe even sent a few “emergency” snack deliveries just to find the best of the best. If you need reliability, speed, and zero excuses, here’s who to call.
How much do courier and delivery services charge in London?
Courier and delivery services in London typically charge around £10.75 for next-day delivery, £1.40 per mile for small vans, and £5.20 for bicycles. However, the final price may change depending on package size, weight, distance, and delivery urgency.
How We Chose
- Speed & Reliability – We tested delivery times for different types of packages and checked customer feedback to see if couriers consistently met their promised schedules.
- Coverage Area – We reviewed their service maps and tested deliveries to multiple locations to determine whether the couriers covered all of London, including harder-to-reach areas.
- Service Variety – We assessed if they offered options like same-day, next-day, and international shipping by reviewing service lists and confirming details with customer support.
- Pricing & Transparency – We compared quotes for different package sizes and delivery types to see which couriers had fair rates and whether they clearly listed fees without hidden charges.
- Customer Experience – We called, emailed, and messaged support teams to see how helpful and responsive they were. We also checked real customer reviews to look for common complaints or praise.
1. Demarco Couriers
Location: 245 N Gower St
Contact: +44 7831 830240
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Demarco Couriers’ same-day courier service has saved our necks more times than we can count. We’ve noticed they never miss a beat when it comes to punctuality. We’ve had zero delays so far, which has definitely earned our trust.
We especially love how they’re able to handle everything from secure data to fashion returns and even medical deliveries – talk about versatility.
Plus, the way they charge is pretty cool: we pay for one job, then the next one is free up to three times within a 5-mile radius.
We also really appreciate their 10th job discount at just £10 within a 10-mile radius, which has saved us a nice chunk of change.
However, we found that if we need something delivered beyond their standard mileage offers, the costs can add up a bit faster than we’d like.
But they impressed us further with their free £25,000 Goods in Transit insurance. It gives us extra peace of mind knowing our stuff is covered. We’ve paid for couriers in the past who charged extra for this kind of coverage, so we’re glad Demarco includes it for free.
Responds quickly to last-minute requests
“Marco was amazing to work with. I had a sofa emergency where I needed a sofa ASAP (after the first two fell through due to unexpected delays in delivery etc). I purchased a floor model of a sofa, called Marco, and within 2 hours, he had that sofa delivered to my home and assembled. He was extremely communicative (texted me when he was leaving the story and then near my home) and friendly to work with. I would 100% keep his details on file for future furniture deliveries, I cannot recommend him enough.”
Hannah Yan Field, Google Review
Engages in friendly conversations during deliveries
“I bought a few furniture from West Elm and they were very heavy for me to carry on my own. Thankfully, I was recommended to demarco couriers to help with the transportation. He was very professional and punctual. He also unpacked and assembled my chair which was very helpful and kind. We also had a good conversation and I will definitely be sharing his details to my friends and family to help with moving furniture and delivery as well. Thank you Marco!”
Atena D, Google Review
2. The Same Day People
Location: Kemp House, 160 City Rd
Contact: +44 333 772 6068
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
We’ve called The Same Day People a few times now, and we’ve been happy with how they get our packages where they need to go in a hurry.
They offer same-day and next-day deliveries across the UK, and we’ve been impressed by their large fleet that seems ready to handle just about any size of shipment.
One thing we really like is that they promise to collect within 60 minutes, which has saved us on more than one occasion when we were up against a deadline.
Their rates start at £25, which we think is pretty competitive for same-day service. They even offer a price match guarantee, so we feel like we’re getting the best possible deal.
It’s also reassuring to know they’ve partnered with big names like the NHS and Tarmac – it definitely gives them some extra credibility in our book.
The drivers we’ve worked with have been on time and professional, and we appreciate that they’ve got coverage nationwide, which makes our lives easier.
However, we did notice some reviews mentioning unexpected fees. We personally haven’t run into that issue yet, but it’s worth keeping in mind.
Retrieves lost items quickly and efficiently
“Fantastic service. I left my work mobile in Wales in a hotel. It had fallen out my bag. The same day people were fantastic. My husband phoned them and they were fantastic. As I was driving home. They phoned him back with a quote and it was cheaper than expected as I live outside of London. I needed my work phone for work the next day. They arrived at the hotel earlier than expected and my husband was called to say he was there. They checked the address and then arrived a few hours later. He phoned again when he was 20 minutes away.”
Bella_therapy Corinne R, Google Review
Organises deliveries seamlessly with full updates
“I cannot speak highly enough of this organisation. I had spoken to a number of the larger courier organisations who could not offer the service I was looking for. I spoke to Mark at the Same Day People, who was incredibly helpful and professional. He organised everything and kept me fully updated. Krisztian who picked up and made the delivery was bang on time and could not have been a better ambassador for The Same Day People. I would have absolutely no hesitation recommending them.”
David Desborough, Google Review
3. KnightHak – Premier Same Day Courier Service
Location: 21 Ellis St, London SW1X 9AL
Contact: +44 20 3005 6999
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Handles goods with care and professionalism
“KnightHak provided a Brilliant service. I have done business with them before a few times and every time they have been punctual/fast, reliable, kept me updated (which I love the most), looked after my goods and provided an excellent service where I asked them to deliver, maintained a professional service the whole way. To make things even better they have been polite, friendly and presented themselves well. I will definitely be doing business with them again.”
Arranges swift deliveries within minutes
“Very professional service! After shopping at Harrods I required delivery for my items. I spoke with Adham, who was very friendly and knowledgeable. He orchestrated a delivery van within 30 minutes. The driver dressed very smartly. He took my items and ensured that they would be delivered within the allotted time. I would highly recommend.”
Tia, Google Review
4. Abetta Couriers
Location: 14 Southgate Rd
Contact: +44 20 7870 3444
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
We had one of those panic moments recently – you know, when you suddenly realise you need something shipped ASAP – and KnightHak swooped in to save the day.
They offer a wide range of services, including urgent same-day, next-day, overnight, and even multi-drop deliveries. That’s why it felt like no matter what curveball we threw at them, they were ready.
What really stood out to us was how fast they operate. They promise collection within 60 minutes, and in our experience, they actually stuck to that promise—no annoying delays or having to chase them for updates.
We also loved that they assign a “courier concierge” for every delivery. It might sound fancy, but it just basically means we had a go-to person who kept an eye on our shipment from start to finish.
Regular location updates and immediate proof of delivery definitely made us breathe easier.
The only potential hitch is that KnightHak positions itself as a premium service, so prices can run a bit higher compared to cheaper, no-frills couriers.
Streamlines the booking process with familiarity and ease
“I came accross these Couriers by chance a couple of years ago when we had to send out lots more items to our employees due to COVID and we have been using them ever since. They are very reliable with very good customer service. Pick ups and deliveries are swift and the prices, very competitive. I’ve never had any major issues with this company. Any minor issues i have had have been dealt with quickly. They know you as soon as you they hear your voice so no faffing about or lengthy booking process. Would highly recommend.”
Jamie Sheekey, Google Review
Maintains a dependable team for regular deliveries
“I work for a company who use Abetta’s services on a weekly basis. Kellie, Mark and the rest of the team are all very professional, ensuring our packages are delivered in a timely fashion. I highly recommend using Abetta Couriers.”
Connor Meddings, Google Review
5. The Same Day Group Couriers
Location: 1 Ropemaker St, City of London
Contact: +44 20 3515 0450
Operating hours:
- Monday – 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
We recently tried out The Same Day Group Couriers for a series of last-minute shipments, and they’ve quickly earned a spot on our shortlist.
They’ve been around since 2010, and it feels like they’ve spent that time really fine-tuning their approach to same-day deliveries.
What’s cool is that their fleet runs the gamut from tiny motorcycles (perfect for envelopes) to hefty 18-tonne articulated HGVs (great for multiple pallets).
A big draw for us was their “dedicated vehicle” policy – every single delivery travels solo, so no tossing your consignment in with someone else’s. It practically eliminates mix-ups and gives you that extra sense of security.
We also appreciate that all their couriers are fully vetted and CRB checked, which gave us peace of mind about who’s handling our stuff.
On top of that, their fast email responses and simple quote system saved us a ton of time.
The only real drawback, at least for our team, is that they don’t provide 24/7 service. We often have late-night or off-hour needs, so this could be a hiccup if you operate around the clock.
Delivers with politeness and helpfulness
“Wow, so professional and reassuring! We required an urgent courier for a photo shoot after being let down at the last minute – Isty from The Same Day Group Couriers was very reassuring. The driver arrived in 40 minutes and was extremely polite and helpful. We have found a new favourite Courier Company.”
Leroy Chibwe, Google Review
Turns emergencies into smooth solutions
“I left my passport in a hotel in London and was flying out of Manchester the next day. Needless to say I was freaking out. Adam was so calm which calmed me down 🙂 The passport reached Manchester before I did and Adam kept me updated throughout the day. I would totally recommend using SameDay if you need something important getting to you quickly.”
Dawn Gosling, Google Review
