Courier Logistics Ltd - News #Overnight Parcels

Christmas Operating Schedule 2025

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:06:18 +0000

During this festive season, we want to keep you informed about our Christmas and New Year operating schedule at Courier Logistics. Here's a breakdown of our schedule during this period:

Download Schedule

For any urgent or time-sensitive deliveries during the holiday period, please contact our customer service for assistance and alternative options.

Visit our socials

FAQ's

Simple Guide to Getting Started with Air Freight Shipping

Fri, 02 May 2025 10:30:40 +0000

If you or your business are thinking about branching into international delivery, air freight is one of the fastest, secure and reliable solutions for time sensitive or high value goods. But before you get to sending your parcels off, its crucial that you understand the basics such as: customs, documentation, restricted items and the potential hidden costs that can catch new exporters like you off guard.

In this guide we will help break down the basics you need to know using our industry knowledge and guidance based on our own international delivery service Gentium here at Courier Logistics.

What Is Air Freight?

Air freight is the transportation of goods via an aircraft. It is one of the most popular and fastest ways amongst businesses to ship products internationally and is most common for sending these type of goods:

Urgent deliveries
High-value items
Small, dense or lightweight shipment

What Paperwork Do You Need?

When it comes to international shipping, incorrect and incomplete paperwork is one of the most common causes of customs delays and additional fees. Here's a brief overview of what you need to know:

Air Waybill (AWB)

This is the shipping contract between you and the carrier and acts as a receipt for the goods. It will include:

Shipper and receiver info
Description of goods
Tracking number
Carrier details and service level

Think of it as the passport for your shipment, this always should travel with your goods.

Commercial Invoice

This will be used by customs authorities to asses duties and taxes, it must be accurate and detailed. It should include:

Full shipper/consignee details
A complete description of each item
HS (Harmonised System) commodity codes
Quantity and unit price
Currency used
Country of origin
Incoterms (e.g., DDP, DAP)

Even a small error, like a vague description ("parts" instead of "steel fasteners"), can cause customs holds.

Packing List

Although this is similar to the commercial invoice, the packing list is used to verify the physical content of the shipment. It includes:

Number of boxes or pallets
Weight and dimensions
Package numbers or labels
Content of each package

This is especially useful during customs inspections and helps avoid disputes over damaged or missing goods.

Import/Export Licenses

Depending on what you're shipping, you may need special permissions. For example:

Export control licenses for military or dual-use goods
DEFRA certification for animal products
MHRA registration for medical goods or pharmaceuticals

Failing to declare restricted goods can lead to serious penalties or seizure.

EORI Number

All UK businesses shipping internationally must have an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. It’s required for customs declarations and is linked to your VAT registration.

You can register for an EORI number via HMRC in just a few minutes, but without it, you can’t import or export legally.

Apply for EORI

What Can't You Ship?

Air freight is heavily regulated for safety reasons. Based on Gentium and other carriers guidance here's what's typically restricted:

Prohibited:

Cash and bearer instruments
Firearms and weapons
Hazardous materials not packaged and declared correctly
Precious metals and stones in raw form

Restricted:

Alcohol and tobacco
Medications and supplements
Batteries (especially lithium-ion)
Animal products and food items

Always check destination-specific regulations, some countries are stricter than others.

Hidden Fees & Unexpected Charges

Beyond the shipping cost, be prepared for additional charges:

Duties & Taxes: Calculated based on the product’s value and commodity code
Disbursement Fees: Charged by couriers for paying duties on your behalf
Customs Clearance Charges: For handling customs paperwork
Storage Fees: If customs clearance is delayed
Fuel Surcharges or Security Fees: Often fluctuating based on market conditions

Budgeting only for the freight quote is a rookie mistake, be sure to factor in these extras.

What Do DDP, DAP & IOSS Mean?

These terms define who’s responsible for customs fees and taxes. Make sure you pick the right one for your business model:

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): You pay everything including shipping, taxes, and duties. Easier for your customer, more admin for you.
DAP (Delivered at Place): You pay for transport only. The customer pays duties and taxes when the parcel arrives.
IOSS (Import One Stop Shop): For EU orders under €150. You charge VAT upfront at checkout, avoiding surprise fees on delivery. Essential for a smooth eCommerce experience.

How UK Customs Works

For UK-based exporters and importers:

You need an EORI number
Declare your goods with accurate HS/commodity codes
Keep records of every import/export for at least 6 years
Understand if your goods require extra certification (e.g. CE marking, sanitary/phytosanitary certificates)

Our expert international team can help you navigate complex import rules and post-Brexit compliance.

Tips for New Exporters

Start small and scale up. Trial a single destination to learn how customs, paperwork, and delivery timings work in practice.
Lean on expert support. Our dedicated International Team and Account Managers are here to help you through every step, from HS codes to customs clearance to finding the best routes and rates.
Be transparent with customers. If you’re shipping under DAP, make sure the recipient knows they’ll pay duties. Use your website or checkout page to explain.
Protect your goods. Air freight is fast, but things can go wrong. Always use suitable packaging and consider insurance for high-value items.
Know your timelines. Air freight is quick but customs delays, local holidays, and incorrect paperwork can impact delivery. Build in a buffer when promising delivery dates.
Track and communicate. Most carriers offer real-time tracking. Share this with customers and keep them informed proactively.

Ready to Get Started with Air Freight?

Whether you're exporting your first parcel or scaling up your global reach, our experienced International Team is ready to help you succeed. From choosing the right service and Incoterms to getting all the documentation right, we’ll make sure your freight gets off the ground fast.

Find out more about Gentium below or get a quote today!

Get a Quote

Find out More

Want to stay informed? Check out our latest news and industry insights.

International Delivery

Storage & Fulfilment

Overnight Pallets

Overnight Parcels

Irregular Freight Delivery

Haulage

Same-day delivery

Contract Logistics

Christmas Operating Schedule

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 12:52:01 +0000

During this festive season, we want to keep you informed about our Christmas and New Year operating schedule at Courier Logistics. Here's a breakdown of our schedule during this period:

For any urgent or time-sensitive deliveries during the holiday period, please contact our customer service for assistance and alternative options.

Download Schedule

Visit our socials

FAQ's

Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme - What is it?

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:09:43 +0000

The Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme (FHDDS) was introduced by the Finance (No.2) Act2017, as a way to combat tax evasion and abuse of tax rules, concerning goods imported from overseas businesses selling to UK customers via online marketplaces.

To gain approval under the FHDDS, a business will take on an evaluation which typically consists of an on-site assessment of the facilities safety and security standards and will also involve due diligence checks reviewing important documents such as licences and insurance policies.

For businesses operating in the fulfilment industry, being approved under the FHDDS is a mark of credibility and trustworthiness. This accreditation shows that a fulfilment house adheres to regulatory standards and operates with integrity.

Benefits of FHDDS for Businesses

When choosing your partner for fulfilment, its a logical choice to select a FHDDS approved business for the many advantages you will receive:

Reliability: Registered fulfilment houses guarantee a reliable and consistent service with minimal disruptions ensuring timely delivery for online businesses, which is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction.

Transparency: The FHDDS promotes transparency due to the validation of licenses, security measures and operational standards when undergoing evaluation and due diligence checks.

Risk Mitigation: FHDDS ensures that risks such as data security breaches and inventory mismanagement are effectively mitigated by maintaining high standards and protocols within the fulfilment house.

Quality assurance: Registered fulfilment houses ensure the highest standards in their services. This commitment to quality enhances customer satisfaction, promotes loyalty and strengthens band reputations.

Cost efficiency: Registered fulfilment houses maximise efficiency through advanced technology and optimised processes. As a result of this, they can offer a streamlined service with a competitive cost.

Compliance and legal assurance: FHDDS certification ensures adherence to legal requirements and industry regulations in their operations.

Courier Logistics - FHDDS Approved

As an FHDDS-approved fulfilment house, our commitment to excellence and reliability caters to both overseas and UK businesses offering a seamless and stress-free fulfilment solution. With our state-of-the-art facilities and industry accreditation, we guarantee a simple and efficient fulfilment experience, allowing you to focus on growing your business with confidence.

Get a quote

FAQs

Storage & Fulfilment

Overnight Parcels - Parcelly pick up option

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 13:27:24 +0000

What is Parcelly?

Parcelly is a service that improves the parcel delivery experience for the customer. It operates through a network of conveniently located pickup points, often in collaboration with local businesses, allowing individuals to have their packages sent to a Parcelly location of their choice instead of their home address. This approach means you can collect your parcels at a time and place that suits your schedule, eliminating the need to wait at home for deliveries or worry about missed packages. With a user-friendly app, Parcelly provides a seamless and flexible solution, to receive your online orders, changing the way the customer receives parcel deliveries.

More info on Parcelly

Here's what it means for you:

Convenient Parcel Pickup: You can now redirect your parcels to a nearby Parcelly location, making it even easier and more secure to collect them at your convenience.
Choose Your Location: We'll provide you with a list of nearby Parcelly locations, so you can pick the one that suits you best.
Speedy Delivery: If you choose this option, your parcels will be scheduled for delivery to the Parcelly location, and you can pick them up the very next working day.
Easy Tracking: You can follow its journey within the Parcelly location, so you always know where it is.

Find your closest pick-up point

This partnership with Parcelly is all about simplifying the end customers life and enhancing the overnight parcel delivery experience. We're incredibly excited to introduce this option, and we can't wait for you to try it out! This option will be available from Monday, 25th September. Enjoy the benefits of hassle free parcel collection with Courier Logistics and Parcelly.

Get a quote

FAQ's

Overnight Parcels - New leave safe options

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 14:06:40 +0000

In the fast-paced world of overnight deliveries, customer convenience and satisfaction are essential. That's why we are thrilled to announce the latest change aimed at making your overnight delivery experience even more seamless and customer-centric. Say hello to our new 'Leave Safe' options!

Starting from Monday, September 11th, we're putting you in control of your deliveries. With the 'Leave Safe' delivery feature, you now have the power to specify you and your customers delivery preferences. We've simplified the process with 'Leave Safe' flags instead of special instructions, reducing the likelihood of errors and ensuring a smoother delivery experience.

Here's what you need to know about our new 'Leave Safe' options:

Allowed: This option gives our drivers the green light to leave your package in a safe spot.

Not Allowed: For added security, our drivers will be required to obtain your name and a picture of the goods being received before leaving your package.

Consignee Choice: You have the flexibility to let the consignee decide whether it's okay to leave the package safe via APC Choice.

Depots and shipping customers have the opportunity to configure their default settings between Monday, September 11th, and Friday, September 29th. Starting from Monday, October 2nd, the 'Leave Safe' setting will be the default option for sending consignments.

At Courier Logistics we are dedicated to providing you with a hassle-free and secure overnight delivery service. APC Overnight's new 'Leave Safe' options, is taking another step towards ensuring your deliveries are not only fast but also tailored to your preferences.

Get Started Now

Get a quote

FAQ's