Parcel Monkey cheaper: Find the best cheap shipping options in the UK

When you need to send a parcel in the UK and want to save money, Parcel Monkey, a price comparison platform that aggregates courier services for small businesses and individuals. Also known as parcel comparison site, it helps users find deals—but it’s not always the cheapest option. Many people assume Parcel Monkey gives you the lowest rate, but that’s not true. It shows you what couriers are willing to advertise, not what’s actually the best value after fees, delivery speed, or reliability are factored in.

What makes a shipping service truly cheaper isn’t just the upfront price. Royal Mail, the UK’s national postal service with fixed pricing and widespread drop-off points often beats Parcel Monkey on small packages if you don’t need next-day delivery. Then there’s DHL eCommerce, a budget-friendly option for lightweight parcels with good tracking, which sometimes offers lower rates than Parcel Monkey’s quoted couriers because it cuts out middlemen. And don’t forget InPost, a locker-based delivery network that slashes last-mile costs by using pickup points instead of home drops. These services don’t always show up on Parcel Monkey because they don’t pay to be listed.

Here’s the thing: Parcel Monkey works best when you’re in a hurry and want to compare five options fast. But if you’re shopping around for the cheapest, you need to look beyond it. Check direct rates from couriers like Evri, Yodel, or even Amazon Logistics for returns. Some local couriers in Manchester or Birmingham offer 30% lower rates than national brands for same-region deliveries. And if you ship often, signing up for a business account with DPD or Hermes can unlock bulk discounts that Parcel Monkey can’t touch.

Hidden fees are where most people get burned. Parcel Monkey might show £5.99 for a small parcel—but then you find out the courier charges extra for weekend delivery, fuel surcharges, or oversized labels. One user saved £12 a week just by switching from a Parcel Monkey-recommended service to a direct DHL eCommerce rate that didn’t add those extras. Always read the fine print before clicking "book now."

What you’ll find below are real comparisons, cost breakdowns, and insider tips from people who ship daily—whether they run online stores, sell on eBay, or just need to send gifts without overspending. We’ve dug into actual invoices, tested delivery times, and tracked which services truly deliver value. No fluff. No sponsored posts. Just what works.