Few things frustrate businesses more than opaque delivery pricing — surcharges that appear at invoice time, rates that seem to change without reason, and quotes that are impossible to compare. Understanding how courier pricing actually works puts you back in control. Here is a transparent breakdown of what you are paying for and how to get the best value.
The core factors in every courier quote
- Distance: the further the delivery, the higher the cost — this is the single biggest driver, which is why local stock and short last miles matter so much.
- Speed: same-day and rush deliveries cost more than scheduled or next-day, because they require dedicated, on-demand capacity.
- Size and weight: larger or heavier items take more space and handling; oversized goods may need special vehicles.
- Special handling: fragile, temperature-controlled, or white-glove items carry added cost for the care they require.
- Time of day: after-hours, weekend, and holiday deliveries often carry premiums.
Why labour and the last mile dominate cost
It helps to know where the money actually goes. Across the industry, labour accounts for roughly half of last-mile delivery cost, with fuel adding another 10–25% (SmartRoutes). And the last mile itself is about 53% of total shipping cost. That is why a delivery across town can cost more than you might expect — and why density and routing efficiency are the levers that bring prices down.
The hidden fees to watch for
When comparing couriers, the headline rate is only half the story. Ask specifically about fuel surcharges, waiting-time fees, re-delivery charges for failed attempts, residential vs commercial differences, and address-correction fees. A transparent provider will lay these out before you book, not after.
How to get the best value
- Consolidate volume: recurring routes and bundled services unlock better per-delivery rates.
- Plan ahead where you can: scheduled deliveries cost less than last-minute rushes.
- Improve first-attempt success: accurate addresses and recipient availability avoid re-delivery fees.
- Ask for a clear, all-in quote: a single transparent number beats a low base rate plus surprises.
Transparent pricing, by design
Intact Courier provides clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees, and works with businesses to structure recurring routes and service-level agreements that lower cost over time. You can request an instant quote for same-day courier service and see the price before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
How is courier pricing calculated?
Primarily by distance, speed, size/weight, special handling, and timing. Same-day and oversized or specialized deliveries cost more than standard scheduled runs.
Why did my delivery cost more than the base rate?
Usually due to surcharges — fuel, waiting time, failed-delivery re-attempts, or after-hours premiums. Always ask for an all-in quote.
How can I lower my courier costs?
Consolidate volume with one provider, schedule ahead when possible, and improve first-attempt delivery success to avoid re-delivery fees.
Get a Free Quote
Want pricing you can actually understand? Contact Intact Courier & Logistics for a free, transparent quote with no hidden fees.