When it comes to shipping, businesses and individuals alike are always on the lookout for the cheapest option available. Two of the most popular shipping companies in the UK are Royal Mail and Hermes. In this article, we’ll explore whether Royal Mail is cheaper than Hermes.
Comparing Prices
The first step in determining which company is cheaper is to compare their prices. Both Royal Mail and Hermes offer a range of services at different price points depending on the size, weight, and destination of the package. Let’s take a look at some sample prices for packages under 2kg:
- Royal Mail 1st Class: £3.70
- Royal Mail 2nd Class: £3.10
- Hermes Standard: £3.20
- Hermes Next Day: £5.99
From this comparison, we can see that Royal Mail’s 2nd class option is slightly cheaper than Hermes’ standard option, while Royal Mail’s 1st class option is slightly more expensive.
Additional Costs
However, it’s important to note that there may be additional costs associated with each service. For example, if you require tracking or insurance for your package, this may incur an extra fee with either company.
Royal Mail Additional Costs:
- Signed For: £1.85 (additional to postage cost)
- Special Delivery Guaranteed: From £6.50 (additional to postage cost)
Hermes Additional Costs:
- Next Day Delivery: £2 (additional to postage cost)
- Signature Required: £1 (additional to postage cost)
It’s also worth noting that both Royal Mail and Hermes offer bulk discounts for businesses and frequent shippers. These discounts may make one company more cost-effective than the other depending on your shipping needs.
Delivery Times
Another factor to consider when choosing between Royal Mail and Hermes is delivery times. Royal Mail’s 1st class option typically delivers within 1-2 working days, while 2nd class can take up to 3 working days. Hermes’ standard option delivers within 3-5 working days, while their next day option guarantees delivery by the next working day.
Conclusion
So, is Royal Mail cheaper than Hermes? The answer is: it depends.
For packages under 2kg, Royal Mail’s 2nd class option is slightly cheaper than Hermes’ standard option. However, there may be additional costs associated with each service depending on your specific shipping needs. Delivery times also differ between the two companies, so it’s important to consider this when making a decision.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which company is cheaper for you is to compare prices and additional costs based on your specific shipping needs.