On Board Courier Delivery
Hand-carried international courier service for time-critical shipments
On board courier services are used when a shipment cannot be delayed or passed through conventional logistics networks. A dedicated courier travels with your parcel on the next available flight, maintaining direct control from collection through to final delivery.
By removing multiple handling stages and transit points, this method provides a level of speed, security, and certainty that standard international courier services cannot match. It is typically used for urgent consignments, high-value items, and sensitive materials where precision is critical.
What Is an On Board Courier?
An on board courier personally carries your shipment on a commercial flight, keeping it with them throughout the journey. Depending on size and airline requirements, items are transported either as cabin baggage or checked luggage.
Unlike standard courier or freight services, the shipment does not pass through depots or multiple handling stages. It stays with the courier at all times, significantly reducing the risk of delays, damage, or loss.
When On Board Courier Is Used
For deliveries where timing, security, and control cannot be compromised
On board courier services are used when delivery deadlines are fixed and delays are not an option. They are suited to high-value or confidential items, urgent operational components, and shipments that require direct supervision throughout transit.
This approach is often chosen when standard courier or freight services introduce too much risk, or when international routing needs to be simplified to ensure a controlled and predictable outcome.
Service Requirements
Criteria for on board courier shipments
- Suitable for shipments typically under 30kg
- Items must comply with airline and international customs regulations
- Shipments must be prepared for air travel (packaging and documentation)
- Dangerous or restricted goods must be declared in advance
Support is available to ensure all documentation and requirements are in place before dispatch.
Global Coverage
International delivery from UK airports to worldwide destinations
On board courier services operate globally, with departures from major UK airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow.
Routes are selected based on the fastest available flights, allowing access to key destinations across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia. Collection is arranged from London and across the UK, with immediate transfer to the most appropriate airport for departure.
Delivery Timeframes
Fastest possible delivery based on real-time flight availability
Delivery speed is determined by flight availability and destination, with many European cities reached on the same day and international locations typically delivered within 24–48 hours.
Because shipments travel on the next available flight, transit times are significantly reduced compared to standard courier or freight services.
Who Uses On Board Courier Services
Used across industries where delays carry real consequences
On board courier services are relied upon across sectors where timing and control are essential. This includes legal and financial organisations, manufacturing and engineering firms, technology companies, and life sciences operations.
Typical shipments include critical documents, prototypes, specialist components, and high-value equipment where delays, loss, or damage are not acceptable.
How It Works
A controlled, end-to-end delivery process
- A delivery request is submitted and a quote is provided
- A courier is assigned based on destination and urgency
- Immediate collection is arranged from your location
- The courier travels on the next available flight with the shipment
- Delivery is completed directly to the recipient
Updates are provided throughout the journey, ensuring full visibility from collection through to final delivery.
Why Use On Board Courier
A direct and secure alternative to conventional international delivery
- Hand-carried delivery with a dedicated courier
- Fastest available international shipping method
- Minimal handling and reduced transit risk
- Direct routing based on live flight availability
- Suitable for urgent, high-value, or sensitive consignments
