When searching for fulfilment companies in the UK, eCommerce businesses face a wide variety of options — each offering different capabilities, technologies, and specialisations.
Choosing the right fulfilment provider can make or break your customer experience, operational efficiency, and business growth.
This article explores some popular UK fulfilment companies, key factors to consider when choosing a partner, non-negotiable service standards, onboarding expectations, and current industry trends like automation.
It’s intended as a neutral list as opposed to a set of recommendations. We hope you find it useful!
Popular Fulfilment Companies in the UK
Here’s a snapshot of notable fulfilment providers and what they say sets them apart:
Huboo — UK-based with end-to-end eCommerce fulfilment, notable for assigning a dedicated “Hub Manager” per client.
Fulfilmentcrowd — An international network featuring a scalable, self-service digital platform with distributed warehouses.
ILG (International Logistics Group) — Focuses on premium and luxury brands, offering personalised packaging and value-added services.
Torque Logistics — UK logistics provider delivering tailored warehousing and fulfilment for growing brands.
One World Express — Integrates global shipping and cross-border eCommerce solutions under one platform.
Core Fulfilment — Known for transparent pricing, serving small to mid-sized eCommerce businesses.
Whistl Fulfilment — Part of Whistl’s delivery group, leveraging postal expertise for integrated B2B and B2C fulfilment.
Packfleet Fulfilment — A newer provider with a focus on green logistics, using electric vehicles and modern software.
What to Consider When Choosing a UK Fulfilment Company
If you’re considering choosing or switching to a UK fulfilment company, you should keep the following criteria in mind.
Operational Capabilities
Warehouse Locations: Strategically placed near UK hubs or ports to reduce delivery times.
Scalability: Ability to manage seasonal spikes and business growth.
Service Range: Availability of kitting, returns processing, custom packaging, subscription box fulfilment, etc.
Cut-off Times: Latest order times for same-day dispatch.
Technology & Integration
Platform Integrations: Seamless connection to Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, and others.
Inventory Visibility: Real-time stock and order tracking.
Automation: Features like automated workflows and order routing.
Note: As well as choosing the right fulfilment provider, it’s important to choose the right delivery management platform. Our delivery management platform Scurri Connect can seamlessly integrate with third party software via API.
Delivery & Returns
Courier Partnerships: Use of trusted carriers with multiple delivery options.
Returns Handling: Efficient, customer-friendly returns processes.
Delivery Performance: High on-time and damage-free delivery rates.
Cost Structure
Transparent Pricing: Clear, upfront costs without hidden fees.
Minimums: Order volume or spend minimums that make business sense.
Customer Support & Reputation
Account Management: Dedicated contacts for streamlined communication.
Service Level Agreements: Contractual performance targets.
References & Reviews: Client testimonials and independent reviews (e.g., Trustpilot).
Customer Support & Reputation
Account Management: Dedicated contacts for streamlined communication.
Service Level Agreements: Contractual performance targets.
References & Reviews: Client testimonials and independent reviews (e.g., Trustpilot).
International Reach
Global Shipping: Efficient support for international orders.
Customs Support: Handling of duties and compliance documentation.
Sustainability & Ethics
Global Shipping: Efficient support for international orders.
Customs Support: Handling of duties and compliance documentation.
Non-Negotiables When Choosing a UK Fulfilment Provider
In addition to the above criteria for selecting a UK fulfilment company, there are a few non-negotiables. If your fulfilment company in the UK can’t provide these, then they may not be the best fit for you:
Pick & Pack Accuracy to avoid costly errors.
On-Time Dispatch, especially for next-day orders.
Real-Time Inventory Tracking accessible via platform or API.
Seamless Integration with your eCommerce and shipping platforms.
Transparent Pricing without hidden fees.
Effective Returns Management that supports customer satisfaction.
Scalability to grow with your business.
Secure, GDPR-Compliant Warehousing & Data Handling.
Reliable Customer Support with clear SLAs.
UK-Based Warehouses located for fast delivery.
Access to Performance Data for continuous improvement.
Without these essentials, risks include operational delays, inventory mismanagement, and poor customer experiences.
Comparing Fulfilment Companies UK: Where to Start
To compare providers effectively, consider these trusted websites that offer further support and guidance when selecting partners:
Compare3PLs.com — Receive tailored quotes from vetted UK fulfilment providers.
Clutch.co — Verified client reviews and leader rankings of UK eCommerce fulfilment firms.
The Retail Exec — Side-by-side reviews highlighting key strengths of UK providers.
Capterra – Third party site that lists directories of fulfilment companies including client reviews
Automation & AI: The Future of UK Fulfilment
By 2030, over 85% of UK fulfilment warehouses are expected to be automated, with AI-powered picking robots and autonomous mobile systems becoming the norm.
Currently, there are around 418,000 service robots deployed in UK fulfilment centres, averaging 4.25 robots per warehouse, expected to nearly double by 2030.
Choosing the right fulfilment company in the UK
Selecting the right fulfilment company in the UK requires careful evaluation of operational capabilities, technology, pricing, and customer service. Use comparison tools and focus on non-negotiables like accuracy, transparency, and scalability to avoid costly mistakes.
A reliable fulfilment partner not only ensures your products reach customers quickly and safely but also provides the foundation for sustainable growth and competitive advantage in the eCommerce landscape.
Powering fulfilment with delivery management software
While this article covers hints and tips on selecting the best fulfilment company within the UK, it’s also important to select the right delivery management software provider.
Delivery management software differs from fulfilment companies in that a delivery management platform is often technology based. For example, our platform Scurri Connect is cloud based software that connects all aspects of delivery management.
It can connect to your warehouse management software via API, and allow you to connect to our wide range of carriers.
Delivery management software may be the missing piece in your fulfilment strategy. To learn more about our delivery management software Scurri Connect, click the link below.