Prepare for DPD collection or Pickup handover, with the right label and packing checks.
Pickup and collection have different checks
DPD Online describes both collection and drop-off services. A Pickup shop is not an unlimited substitute for a collection booking: the packaging page sets specific handover limits and tells senders to consult the terms. Verify your exact service and shop before travelling.
Check that the collection address is accessible and that someone can hand over all parcels during the booked window. Delivery estimates and cut-offs belong to the service you actually buy, not to a carrier name alone.
Make the barcode easy to read
DPD’s packing advice highlights clear, unfaded labels. Put the correct label flat on a suitable face, remove old routing labels and keep tape, seams and folds away from the barcode. With several boxes, match each label to its own parcel before handover.
Use a sound outer carton and immobilise the contents. A retail presentation box is not necessarily transport packaging. If reusing a box, check its structure rather than judging it only by appearance.
Understand the visibility you are buying
DPD Online’s UK service information describes tracking. Keep the service confirmation and reference, but check any signature, delivery-instruction or recipient-notification feature in the actual terms. Do not promise a customer a specific delivery hour from a generic service description.
International parcels also need route-specific customs information. The sender should prepare an itemised description, value, country of origin and any other required commodity information before arranging collection.
Avoid a preventable handover problem
For example, a seller printing four labels for three cartons should stop and reconcile the order before dispatch. Mark a packing list with the parcel count, then check each barcode once. A spare label must not be placed on a second carton “just in case”.
Check DPD’s prohibited-goods terms before tendering batteries, liquids or other special-care contents. This page does not establish acceptance or a SelectaParcel service agreement.
Questions worth clearing up
Is a faded barcode acceptable if I can read the address?
DPD’s packaging guidance highlights label print quality. The address being legible does not mean the barcode will scan reliably. Obtain a clear valid label through the booking provider; do not draw over the barcode or attach an unrelated spare label.
Can a Pickup shop accept everything available for collection?
Do not assume so. DPD’s packaging guidance includes specific Pickup handover conditions. Check the particular shop and product against your measured parcel before travelling, even when a collection product accepts a different parcel profile.
What should I do with a spare label?
Reconcile it against the order and parcel count before dispatch. Do not attach it to another box merely to use it up. Each physical parcel must have the reference intended for that piece and shipment.
Primary sources & editorial review
Reviewed on 7 November 2026. Rules can change; check the specific product, destination and current official guidance before sending. This independent explanation is not a quote or a guarantee.
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