What can a Courier Carry?
What Can a Courier Carry? (UK Delivery Guide)
Couriers can transport most everyday business and personal items — but there are rules around hazardous materials, prohibited goods, and special handling. Use this page to check what’s allowed, what isn’t, and how to book safely.
Quick overview
Most courier jobs include: documents, parcels, boxed goods, parts, retail stock, and time-critical items. The main things that cause problems are dangerous goods (flammable/pressurised/corrosive), illegal items, and unpackaged liquids.
*Some items may require extra packaging, declarations, temperature control, or booking confirmation.
Want to check an item quickly? Get an instant quote and add notes at booking.
Allowed items (typical courier shipments)
Commonly carried
- Business documents, contracts, tender packs
- Parcels, boxed items, retail/eCommerce stock
- Machine parts, tools, components, samples
- IT equipment and office supplies
- Printed materials, banners, marketing materials
- Non-hazardous liquids (sealed + packaged properly)
Often carried with notes / care
- Fragile items (glass, ceramics) — must be packaged well
- High-value goods — declare value + use secure handling
- Medical items — may require faster ETA / documentation
- Large/heavy items — vehicle choice matters
- Multiple drops — route planning helps
If you’re unsure, message us with: item description + quantity + weight/size + any liquids/batteries.
Prohibited items (we can’t carry)
For safety and compliance, couriers cannot transport certain categories. If your item falls into these, we’ll advise an alternative compliant service.
Not permitted
- Illegal drugs or controlled substances
- Weapons, ammunition, explosives or fireworks
- Hazardous chemicals (corrosive, toxic, oxidising)
- Flammable liquids/gases (fuel, aerosols, gas cylinders)
- Unpackaged sharp objects
- Stolen goods or counterfeit items
Usually restricted / needs specialist handling
- Lithium batteries (depends on type/packaging)
- Temperature-controlled medical specimens
- Perishables requiring chilled transport
- Cash / negotiable instruments (policy dependent)
- Artwork/antiques (declared value + packing required)
Policy can vary by carrier and insurance. If it’s dangerous goods, it generally needs a specialist DG service.
Packaging rules (this prevents damage and refusals)
Most issues come from poor packaging. Use this checklist before booking:
Seal and box it. Use a strong outer box; avoid thin bags for fragile items.
Cushion properly. Bubble wrap/void fill so nothing moves inside the box.
Label clearly. Include collection + delivery details; add “FRAGILE” if relevant.
Liquids must be leak-proof. Double-bag, tape lids, and include absorbent material.
Declare anything unusual. Batteries, valuable items, medical items—tell us upfront.
Need help choosing the right vehicle for size/weight? Use the quote tool and select a van type.
FAQ
Quick answers for common “can you carry this?” questions.
Can you carry medical items? +
Can you carry lithium batteries? +
Can you carry alcohol, perfumes or aerosols? +
What information do you need to confirm a job? +
Ready to book? Price your route instantly and confirm in minutes.
Internal linking tip: On your money pages, add a short FAQ: “What can you carry?” → link here as a “Read more” guide.