When it comes to timely deliveries in the UK, DPD has built a reputation for speed, accuracy, and reliability. But for many, especially those ordering on a Friday, a critical question arises, does DPD deliver on Saturdays?
The short answer is yes, but the process is more complex than it seems. This blog explores the ins and outs of DPD’s Saturday delivery service, what’s included, how it works, and what you need to know to make sure your weekend deliveries run smoothly.
What Is DPD’s Standard Delivery Schedule in the UK?
DPD offers several delivery options across the UK, each designed to cater to different needs and delivery speeds. These services typically run Monday through Friday, with next-day delivery available for most addresses.
DPD operates during standard business hours for weekday services and provides tracking updates, including a one-hour delivery window to make receiving parcels easier. Saturday and Sunday deliveries are not included in the standard schedule unless selected as an add-on service.
The most common weekday services include delivery before 10:30am, before 12:00pm, or by end of business the next day. These are widely used for both personal and business shipments.
DPD Standard Delivery Options in the UK
| Delivery Option | Description | Delivery Days |
| DPD 10:30 | Delivery by 10:30am next working day | Monday to Friday |
| DPD 12:00 | Delivery by 12:00pm next working day | Monday to Friday |
| DPD Next Day | Delivery before end of business next working day | Monday to Friday |
| DPD Weekend Service | Requires upgrade – not part of standard services | Saturday & Sunday |
DPD’s standard delivery operates Monday to Friday, with Saturday and Sunday only available if you choose a paid weekend service.
Do DPD Offer Saturday Delivery as Standard?
Saturday delivery is not automatically included in DPD’s standard delivery packages. If you’re expecting a parcel on a Saturday, it must be specifically booked and paid for by the sender.
This means you cannot assume your delivery will arrive on the weekend unless the retailer or sender has upgraded the service.
- Saturday delivery must be booked before the Friday cut-off time.
- The sender or retailer must choose and pay for this premium delivery option.
- Tracking will indicate if your parcel is scheduled for Saturday delivery.
If Saturday delivery is essential, confirm with the sender before placing your order.
Is Saturday Delivery Automatically Included?
No, DPD does not include Saturday delivery by default. It’s a paid, premium service that must be selected during checkout or parcel booking. The delivery system operates on the assumption of weekday service unless Saturday delivery is explicitly chosen.
Even if your parcel reaches the local depot on Friday, it will not be delivered on Saturday without the appropriate selection. If unsure, always verify with the sender.
Which DPD Services Include Weekend Deliveries?
DPD offers tailored weekend services that must be selected at the time of booking. The services that can include Saturday and Sunday delivery are extensions of their weekday offerings. For example, you can still opt for timed deliveries such as by 10:30am or 12:00pm on weekends, provided you pay for the upgrade.
These options vary by location and may not be available in all postcode areas. Always check availability before finalising your order.
DPD Weekend Services Overview:
| Weekend Service | Delivery Time | Availability |
| Saturday by 10:30am | Before 10:30am on Saturday | Most UK postcodes |
| Saturday by 12:00pm | Before 12:00pm on Saturday | Selected areas |
| Saturday Next Day | Before the end of the day Saturday | Available UK-wide |
| Sunday Delivery | Nationwide Sunday service | Premium areas |
These weekend services give customers extra flexibility, but availability and cost will depend on your location and chosen retailer.
What Time Does DPD Deliver on Saturdays?
DPD’s Saturday delivery times closely follow its weekday routine. Deliveries generally begin from mid-morning and continue until early afternoon. Most customers receive a one-hour delivery slot notification on Saturday morning, so you don’t have to wait all day.
However, delivery hours can differ slightly depending on your location and local depot workload. You can expect most parcels to arrive between 9:00am and 2:00pm, though some may extend beyond that in busy areas or during peak times.
Is There an Extra Cost for Saturday Delivery with DPD?
Yes, Saturday delivery is classified as a premium service and always comes with an added charge. The actual cost varies depending on the agreement between DPD and the retailer or sender.
For business clients, Saturday delivery may be part of a customised package. For consumers, the price is typically displayed at checkout.
This fee covers operational costs like staffing, vehicle usage, and depot support outside the regular weekday schedule. Always check whether Saturday delivery has been included before assuming your parcel will arrive on the weekend.
Is Saturday Delivery Available for All UK Postcodes?
While DPD covers a vast majority of the UK, Saturday delivery is not guaranteed for every postcode. Availability depends on your location and local delivery infrastructure. Urban areas are more likely to be covered, while rural or remote regions might have limitations.
- Some Scottish Highlands and island postcodes may not qualify.
- Deliveries to Cornwall, Northern Ireland, and offshore locations can be restricted.
- DPD offers a postcode checker tool to confirm service eligibility.
If weekend delivery is critical, always check with the sender or use the postcode checker before placing an order.
How Do DPD Local and DPD Differ for Saturday Deliveries?
DPD and DPD Local operate under the same umbrella but serve different types of customers. Understanding the difference helps you know what to expect regarding Saturday deliveries.
Key Differences Between DPD and DPD Local:
- DPD:
- Caters to large-scale business and commercial clients.
- Often includes bulk shipping solutions.
- Saturday services depend on business agreements.
- DPD Local:
- Focuses on individuals and small businesses.
- Services are more flexible and user-friendly.
- Pickup and drop-off at local shops may be more accessible.
Saturday availability through both depends on your postcode and the time of booking. If your delivery is handled by DPD Local, it’s worth checking their specific cut-off times and weekend policies.
How Does DPD Compare with Other Weekend Courier Services?
DPD remains a top performer when it comes to weekend deliveries in the UK, but it’s not the only option. Several other couriers offer similar services, though with varying coverage, timing, and reliability.
Comparison of Weekend Courier Services in the UK:
| Courier | Saturday Delivery | Sunday Delivery | Live Tracking | Extra Fees |
| DPD | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Royal Mail | Yes (limited) | No | Limited | Yes |
| Yodel | Yes | Yes (limited) | Yes | Yes |
| Evri (Hermes) | Yes | Yes | Basic | Yes |
| Amazon Logistics | Yes | Yes | Yes | Often Free |
DPD’s advantage lies in its precise tracking, one-hour delivery windows, and consistent weekend performance, especially for time-sensitive parcels.
Conclusion
DPD does offer Saturday delivery across much of the UK, but it’s not automatic and must be paid for as a premium service.
Whether you’re sending or receiving a parcel, ensuring that Saturday delivery has been selected is crucial to avoid delays.
Coverage depends on location, and cut-off times must be met. If weekend delivery is important to you, double-check the shipping method and communicate with the sender for confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does DPD stop delivering on Saturdays in the UK?
DPD typically completes Saturday deliveries by 2:00pm, though it can vary by region and route conditions.
Can I choose a DPD Pickup Shop as the delivery location on Saturdays?
Yes, some Pickup Shops operate on Saturdays, but hours and availability depend on the specific location.
Why didn’t I receive my parcel on Saturday even though it arrived at the depot on Friday?
If Saturday service wasn’t selected during booking, the parcel will remain at the depot until Monday.
Does DPD refund Saturday delivery charges if the parcel is late?
Refunds may be available, but you’ll need to contact the sender as they are responsible for the shipping agreement.
Do online retailers always show Saturday delivery options at checkout?
Not always. Retailers must enable and pay for Saturday delivery as an option for it to appear during checkout.
Can I reschedule my DPD Saturday delivery once it’s dispatched?
Yes, you can make changes using DPD’s app or website, including delivery dates and safe-place instructions.
Is there a Saturday delivery option for DPD business accounts?
Yes, business accounts can include Saturday deliveries as part of their logistics package with custom pricing.
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