Choosing the best parcel delivery service

12th November 2019, 12:12pm in Shipping Advice by Steve Zammit

So, you arrive on our site & you're ready to send your parcel. You enter the weight, measurements and the delivery address details on our Quote & Book section. Next, you see multiple delivery options with a variety of well-known courier brands displayed, but which one do you choose?

As a courier comparison website, we like choice, that's what we do! But we're committed to making it as simple as possible for you to compare the services and help you make the best choice.

With our handy tips below, you can quickly filter through the list so you can find the perfect service. Whether you're looking for nationwide or international delivery, we've got you covered.

What is your budget?

There are a number of factors that determine the price you'll pay. Firstly, the weight and measurements of your parcel, the urgency of delivery and if transit cover is required. Whether you're looking for cheap parcel delivery, or a fully loaded premium service, we offer a wide range of options online.

Do you need transit warranty?

Most of our parcel delivery options include free transit warranty up to the value of $100 however, it does exclude some services. Our website will show you if transit warranty is included but you should always consider the value of the goods when making your selection.

If your parcel is worth more than $100, you can easily purchase Interparcel's Enhanced Transit Warranty. Selected services will allow you to cover an item for up to $2000.

We strongly recommend covering your parcel in full so that in the rare event your goods are or lost or damaged in transit, you can recover the full amount. This is especially important if you're sending valuable items. If you'd like to learn more about the benefits of our transit warranty, you can read our Blog Post here.

You must ensure that your items are not prohibited or restricted as these items have transit warranty restrictions.

Does transit warranty cover all items?

No. Firstly, you must make sure that the item you are sending is permitted to be sent through our services and secondly, if cover is available for that item. This information is available in our Prohibited & Restricted items list. Before confirming your booking, you'll need to tick a checkbox that confirms you have read and agreed to this Prohibited & Restricted items list.

If you're not this far along in the booking process, you can always go to our 'Help' section on the website. Simply select the country you are sending to and your preferred courier and we'll let you know if your item can be sent.

Can you send valuable items?

Our couriers can deliver high-value items but there are certain goods which strictly cannot travel through the network. These are known as Prohibited items which are not covered by transit warranty. Examples of prohibited items include:

• Articles of exceptional value (e.g. works of art, antiques, diamonds, precious stones, gold and silver)
• Animals live or deceased / animal skins / furs / any animal parts including meat
• Dangerous goods

There are other items which can be sent but are deemed as unsuitable for our services. These are known as restricted items. Restricted items travel at your own risk so we don't recommend sending them through our network. Transit warranty will only cover lost items and are subject to surcharges, delays or returns. Examples of restricted items include:

• Glass, acrylic, corian, crystal, ceramic, fibreglass, porcelain, plaster, marble or any item containing these materials
• Monitors, computers, laptops, printers, mobile phones, tablets

You can find details about restricted items towards the bottom of our Prohibited & Restricted page.

Do you need an urgent delivery?

We offer nationwide same day services or services delivered next day by a certain time. Weekend deliveries (postcode dependant) and longer delivery services are available also.

Our Same day services are worth considering if your parcel is only travelling a small distance. These services can be really competitive and they benefit from being loaded onto a dedicated vehicle.

We also have a range of time sensitive services including deliveries made by 9am or 10am.

If your parcel is not urgent then you can save money on one of our more economic services that are just as great, but might take a little longer!

Don't wait, drop it off!

If you prefer not to wait for the driver to collect your parcel and you have a flexible schedule, then you can drop your parcel off at the closest depot. Many of our couriers offer a drop off alternative but for tempting savings, have a look at our award winning ParcelPoint service. You can drop your ParcelPoint items to a secure locker accessible 24 hours a day, or a registered local shop. We have a handy Drop Off Locator online so you can find your nearest drop off point.

So now that you know which type of service you need, which courier do you choose?

You'll notice we have similar services offered by different couriers, such as TNT Road Express vs StarTrack Express. These are identical services operated by well-known and reliable companies. Interparcel only deal with recognised national brands, giving you piece of mind whichever courier you choose to ship with. Rest assured, we're continually monitoring service levels to give you best choice in prices & services.

Do you have access to a printer?

In exception of our same day services, we require a shipping label to be printed and attached to your parcel. It's important that this label is attached as it contains a unique barcode that allows you to track your parcel whilst in transit.

What if 'no services were found'?

Contact us! What you're trying to send may not be part of our standard portfolio, but we may still be able to help you out with one of our custom quotes.

Why choose Interparcel?

• We're the one-stop-shop allowing you to compare and book with a variety of recognised courier companies.

• Stack multiple shipments in your shopping cart and book them all at once.

• Price! We offer some of the cheapest prices online in Australia thanks to our negotiated rates with major courier companies.

• Exceptional service. We have a dedicated customer service team located in Australia available to take your enquiries between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.