How Much Does Ecommerce Fulfilment Cost in the UK? (2026 Guide)

Ecommerce fulfilment costs depend on what you store, how many orders you ship and what each order needs. The pick-and-pack rate is only part of the bill. Storage, deliveries into the warehouse, packaging, shipping and returns all matter.

If you’re comparing UK fulfilment providers, start with your own numbers. A quote built around your order volumes and stock profile will tell you far more than a headline rate.

Here’s what to include, what changes the cost and how to make a fair comparison.

What goes into your fulfilment bill?

Most fulfilment quotes cover a mix of these services:

• Goods in: receiving deliveries, checking stock and putting it away.
• Storage: keeping your products in the warehouse until they sell.
• Picking and packing: finding the right items and getting each order ready to leave.
• Packaging: boxes, mailers, protective materials and any branded extras.
• Shipping: the carrier service that takes the parcel to your customer.
• Returns: receiving, checking and processing products sent back.
• Technology: connecting your sales channels and keeping orders and stock in sync.

Providers package these charges differently. Ask what’s included, what’s separate and whether minimum charges apply.

What affects ecommerce fulfilment costs?

Your order volume

Order volumes help a provider plan the people, space and systems you need. Share your typical month and your busy periods, rather than relying on an annual average alone.

The stock you hold

Bulky products and slow-moving lines take up space. Check how storage is measured and how the charge changes as your stock levels rise or fall.

What’s inside each order

A single-item order is different from a bundle that needs several picks, gift wrapping and a handwritten note. Tell providers about those details before comparing quotes.

Your delivery and returns needs

Parcel size, destination and delivery speed affect shipping costs. Returns also need time and handling, so include them in your estimate.

Compare the total, using the same assumptions

Give each provider the same information: order volumes, average items per order, stored stock, inbound deliveries, returns and delivery services.

Then check:

• Are packaging, carrier surcharges and VAT included or separate?
• Are there minimum charges, onboarding costs or integration fees?
• What happens during seasonal peaks?
• Does the quote include every service your products need?

A lower rate for one activity doesn’t always mean a lower overall bill. Read the scope alongside the price.

Is outsourcing cheaper than doing it yourself?

It can be, but it depends on your operation. Include warehouse overheads, staff, equipment, software and management time in your current costs. Then compare that total with a 3PL quote for the same work.

Factor in the move, too. Transferring stock and connecting systems can create costs before the new arrangement starts delivering value.

For a closer look at the work involved, see our ecommerce fulfilment process guide.

Common fulfilment pricing questions

Is shipping included in pick-and-pack pricing?

Don’t assume it is. Picking and packing, packaging and carrier delivery may be separate charges. Ask for a clear breakdown.

How do I calculate fulfilment cost per order?

Add the relevant costs for one trading period, then divide by the orders fulfilled in that period. Be clear about whether your figure includes shipping, returns and overheads.

Is a calculator result a confirmed quote?

No. It’s an estimate based on the details you enter. Confirm the services, exclusions and terms with the provider before making a decision.

Put your own numbers to work

Use GNOC’s free fulfilment calculator to explore an estimate based on your business. Then speak to the team about the storage, order handling and delivery services you need.

Calculate your fulfilment costs

Already reviewing your current setup? Start with these seven hidden fulfilment costs to check.