The difference between same day couriers and parcel companies
Here at GOfers we write a lot of content about parcel deliveries, same day options and supporting different industries and business models, but how do we differ from what people call “parcel companies”?
Domestic or Business?
The first thing to consider is the target market. When we think of parcel delivery companies, we tend to think of the B2C (business to consumer) market – so domestic customers who order something to be delivered to their home (or sometimes work) address. The item being delivered is usually for domestic use.
When we think of “couriers”, the term tends to invoke more of a B2B (business to business) mindset – companies ordering or receiving goods for their business.
Whilst this is not always the case, the terminology being used tends to be the first differentiator between a courier and a parcel delivery company.
Timescales
Timescales are also a factor. Whilst it is certainly possible to pay extra for same day delivery, it is often at a hefty cost to the domestic user, and therefore most B2C customers opt for standard delivery services which take a few days but cost less.
A courier will tend to offer quicker timescales like same day or next day to business users, sometimes at a small extra cost and sometimes as standard. This is because businesses will be relying on the goods delivery for continuation, so they have an expediated need.
Multi-drop Deliveries
Most parcel companies do “multi-drop” routes – so they deliver any number of parcels on their regular route every day.
In comparison, couriers who offer a same day delivery service may also offer a guaranteed direct delivery service, like we do. This means that the consignment or parcel will only go from A (pick up point) to B (drop off point) with no other drop offs in the middle.
Not only is this a quicker option, it is also safer, as it helps to prevent against parcel theft, delays and parcel mix ups.
More about Direct Deliveries here: https://gofers.co.uk/news/move-over-multi-drop-direct-deliveries-are-the-future/
Cost
The cost of the delivery in question is also a point that sets different couriers and parcel companies apart. Domestic users may pay less but receive a slower, less direct service. Business users may pay a little more but receive their item a lot quicker and be more aware of where it is at all times.
