Nationwide
Parcel Service

Track a Parcel
Reschedule a Parcel

Find Your Local Depot

The APC Network is built around local depots providing personal service in their communities. Use our depot finder to locate your nearest depot and speak directly with the team who can help with sending parcels, delivery queries and general enquiries.

APC Direct

For occasional deliveries, APC Direct lets you book and pay for your parcel online using a credit card. It’s a simple way to send a one-off consignment through The APC Network.

Send a Parcel

APC Choice

APC Choice lets recipients track their parcel and manage delivery options online. If plans change, deliveries can easily be rearranged – choose a new delivery day, leave with a neighbour, leave in a safe place, collect from the depot, or redirect to a local convenience store for collection. Once you’ve sent a parcel, you’ll have access to all these options.

Find out more about APC Choice on Our Products page.

Packaging Advice

If your parcel is well packed, it’s far more likely to arrive on time and in perfect condition, so it’s always worth taking a few extra minutes to get it right.

Packaging Guidelines

Download our Packaging Guidelines.

Download Guidelines

Transport Guide

Download our guide for transporting Dangerous Goods in Limited Quantities.

Download Guidelines

We’re afraid we can’t accept any liability for this packaging advice, but we hope it will help you pack items responsibly and securely for their onward journey.

Choose the right box

  • Use a strong, sturdy cardboard box (we recommend at least 2-ply).
  • Reusing a box? Make sure it’s still in good condition and remove any old labels.

Don’t overload your parcel

  • Keep the weight manageable.
  • Overfilled boxes are more likely to break during transit.

Get the size right

  • Pick a box that fits your items properly:
    • Too big → items may move around and get damaged
    • Too small → the box could split
  • Fill any empty space with padding like bubble wrap, packing chips, or paper.

Label clearly

  • Make sure your label is easy to read and firmly attached.
  • Place it on the top of the parcel.
  • Add sender details inside the box, just in case the outer label is damaged.

Protect what’s inside

  • Wrap each item individually where possible.
  • Use plenty of cushioning, especially for fragile items.
  • Clearly label fragile parcels and use “This Way Up” arrows if needed.

Seal it properly

  • Use strong parcel tape (not household tape).
  • Secure all edges and flaps.

Sending bottles (wines & spirits)

  • Wrap bottles securely or use bottle dividers.
  • Pack them in an inner box, then place that inside a strong outer box.
  • Specialist bottle packaging is always best if available.

Sending liquids or powders

  • Make sure everything is sealed and leak-proof.
  • Place items inside a sealed plastic bag for extra protection.
  • Pack upright in a strong outer box and label appropriately.

Sending perishable goods

  • The APC uses an ambient (non-refrigerated) network.
  • To keep items fresh, use:
    • Gel packs
    • Insulated packaging
    • Ice packs or dry ice

Sharp or valuable items

  • Wrap sharp objects very carefully so they can’t pierce the packaging.
  • Please note: knives and other bladed items cannot be sent through The APC.
  • Avoid sending items in manufacturer’s packaging alone, always use an outer box for added protection.

Terms & Conditions of Carriage

Our Terms and Conditions explain how our delivery services work, including the responsibilities and guidelines that apply when sending parcels through The APC Network.

If you have any questions about our Terms and Conditions, your local APC depot will be happy to help.

Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions for Sending Parcels

How do I open an account?

Your local depot will be happy to help — simply use our depot finder to get in touch with the team covering your area.

How do I get a quote?

To get a quotation, please contact your local depot directly or complete our online enquiry form. Our team will be able to provide a price based on your specific delivery requirements.

Which APC depot should I use?

The APC operates a network of depots, each serving a specific local area. In most cases, you’ll need to use the depot that covers your postcode.

If you’re unsure which depot to contact, simply use our depot finder — enter your postcode and we’ll direct you to the right team.

If you’re an existing customer who has moved location, your depot may be able to make alternative arrangements.

Can I book deliveries online?

Yes, once you’ve opened an account, your local depot will guide you through setting up and using our online booking system.

Where can I find your Terms and Conditions?

You can view our full Terms and Conditions of Carriage on this page of our website.

Are there any items you don’t carry?

Yes, there are certain restrictions on what we can and cannot carry. You can find full details in our excluded items list in our Terms and Conditions of Carriage.

Is my parcel covered by Goods in Transit liability cover?

We offer Goods in Transit liability cover for eligible consignments. Full details of what is covered, and any applicable limits, can be found in our Terms and Conditions of Carriage. Alternatively, speak to your local APC depot.

How do I get proof of delivery (POD)?

There are two easy ways to access your proof of delivery:

  • Log in to your customer account to view all PODs
  • Use the “Track Your Parcel” tool for individual consignments or visit APC Choice

If you’re having any difficulty, your local APC depot will be happy to assist.

How does The APC handle my personal data?

We take data protection seriously. You can find full details on how we collect, use, and protect your information in our Privacy Policy.

  • “The APC and APC Edinburgh’s local approach and reliable overnight delivery service have been game changers for us. As a craft brewery rooted in our community, we trust APC Edinburgh to handle our deliveries with care. Their local depot team has been incredibly supportive, ensuring every delivery arrives in perfect condition.”

    Ben Wallace
    Cold Town Beer
    View Case Studies

  • “We’ve been working with The APC and Lines Distribution Services for over 10 years, and they’ve been a huge support to our business. The drivers are always helpful and handle our heavy, glass-filled parcels with great care. Plus, with The APC’s nationwide network, our customers always receive reliable, high-quality service. I can’t recommend them enough.”

    Fiona Hesketh
    Galloway Lodge
    View Case Studies

  • “The ability to quickly address any issues over the phone is invaluable. Unlike other parcel carriers, Priority Express provides a personal touch and truly understands our unique needs. We often hear from our customers how impressed they are with the speed and dependability of deliveries. Priority Express’ work has been instrumental in ensuring our plants and seeds reach customers in peak condition.”

    Nick Mann
    Habitat Aid
    View Case Studies

  • “We’ve been selling online for more than 15 years and Priority Express and The APC have played a key role in making that possible. Their ability to deliver fresh bread across the UK, even to remote areas, ensures we can reach more customers without compromising on quality. Knowing that Priority Express will deliver on time gives our customers confidence and reinforces their trust in our brand.”

    Anna Herbert
    Hobbs House Bakery
    View Case Studies

  • “We made the decision to partner with Chase Freight due to their reliability and exceptional customer service. For us, having local contacts who understand our business and the needs of our customers, who are willing to go the extra mile is really important for our business.”

    Neil Lucas
    Knoll Gardens
    View Case Studies

  • “The peace of mind I get from knowing that we’re well looked after by The APC and Delivered UK has allowed me to expand into other markets.”

    Carina Evans
    Podium Pet Products
    View Case Studies

  • “One of the key differentiators for APC Edinburgh is having a local point of contact. It allows us to resolve issues quickly and ensures that deliveries are handled efficiently. I truly appreciate the personal touch of dealing with a small, consistent team who are always available to address any concerns.”

    Colin Rae
    Rainbow Railways
    View Case Studies

  • “Working with the local team at The Dash Group fits with our ethos – we can pick up the phone and speak to someone that we trust and understands how our business works.”

    Sam Tanner
    Tanner Trading
    View Case Studies

Opening an Account

There are five easy steps to take when opening an account with your APC depot. You take the first, then leave the rest to us.

Once your account is open, you can schedule collections, book and track your deliveries online and check who has signed for your parcels.

Account Application Form

Download our account application form

Download

Set up a direct debit payment

Download the Direct Debit Mandate Document and send it back to us.

Download
1

Contact Us

Open an account by contacting your local APC depot. Our team will advise you on pricing and all of our services.

Contact Us
2

Account Setup and Collection Scheduling

We’ll agree a collection time and start date with you.

3

Software Integration and Automation

We’ll set up your software integration, enabling automated delivery bookings and remote printing of labels, using your order management and warehouse systems. Data is only entered once and used throughout the process, saving you time and money.

4

Real-Time Tracking and Delivery Visibility

Once your account is open, we’ll show you how our technology gives you real time information on the progress of your delivery, how to track deliveries online and check who has signed for your parcels.

5

Ongoing Review and Support

Then, we’ll schedule a review to ensure everything is going smoothly.

  Trustpilot