Alexander SumnerLast year’s holiday rush reminded us just how chaotic shipping can get on the business side. We were managing client orders and racing to fulfill last-minute requests—all while ensuring every package went out before the cutoff dates.
At one point, our team had to choose between pulling staff off core tasks to handle drop-offs ourselves or relying on a courier that might treat “same day” as more of a polite aspiration. And yes, we definitely spent too much time staring at a slow-loading tracking page.
That whole experience made us realize how important it is to find a reliable courier service in Philadelphia. So this time, we did our homework early. We pulled together services that deliver fast and keep everyone’s stress levels in check.
How much do courier services in Philadelphia cost?
Courier services in Philadelphia cost from $15 to $45 for local same-day deliveries. However, prices vary based on speed, weight, and extras such as tracking, insurance, or specialized handling.
1. Rapid Delivery Service Inc.
Address: 401 S 2nd St #202, PA 19147
Contact Details: +1 888-973-4406
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Rapid Delivery Service Inc. stands out first for its reach. Their same-day coverage extends up to 400 miles, allowing deliveries not just within Philadelphia but also to major cities like New York and others in a single day.
And because they operate 24/7, even on holidays, you’re never stuck when something needs to move urgently. It also helps that they’re fully licensed, bonded, and insured by the U.S. DOT and the PA PUC, especially when sending valuable items.
Beyond that, they adapt quickly to whatever you need. Small envelopes bound for Center City are delivered by bike messenger, while heavier or last-minute shipments go out in a van or a truck.
They can also handle medical items, pallet loads, and legal papers, so you don’t have to switch couriers for different tasks. The only drawback is that their pricing isn’t clearly listed, which means you’ll still need to call or visit for exact rates.
Provided quick help
“We needed a person served, and Rapid Delivery Service made it quick and easy at a very reasonable price. I checked around for quotes, and Rapid Delivery Service was the lowest-priced option. What really surprised me was the excellent and quick service.”
– Kenneth Goodenow, Google Review
Speedy service with reliable staff
“Thank you, Rapid Delivery, for speedy service. It was reasonably priced, and a very kind gentleman was sent to complete the service. They communicate in a timely manner and are very helpful if you have questions.”
– Damesha Tull, Google Review
2. DHL Express Service Point
Address: Entry from 19th Street & JFK Blvd, 1880 John F Kennedy Blvd Ste 104, PA 19103
Contact Details: +1 215-252-5885
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Wednesday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Thursday, Sunday: Closed
DHL Express Service Point is known worldwide, so it naturally stands out when you need a courier you can trust for both local and international deliveries. You can even drop something off in Philadelphia and have it headed to almost any country the same day.
Their Express 10:30 and Express 12:00 services add another layer of convenience. Instead of broad “end of day” estimates, you get clear morning delivery windows, which helps a lot when you’re sending something time-sensitive.
We also appreciate how convenient their Philadelphia ServicePoints are. The JFK Blvd location makes quick drop-offs easy, showing each scan as your package moves through their network, even custom checks for overseas shipments.
However, their pricing follows international rate standards. This fee feels higher than what smaller local couriers charge.
Great customer care
“The customer service here is excellent! Highly professional and assisted me with packing and selecting the best boxes for shipping. Their pricing is competitive, and they service both domestic and international. I highly recommend them for anyone looking to ship a package. Do yourself a favor and make them a part of your future consideration and evaluation set when exploring your shipping options.”
– Que Gaskins, Google Review
Well-run local shop worth visiting
“Helpful service. Great location. Affable, knowledgeable owner (small biz). Highly recommended.”
– Atif I, Google Review
3. The UPS Store
Address: 1735 Market St Ste 125, PA 19103
Contact Details: +1 215-567-6006
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Wednesday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: Closed
If you’re looking for a place that can handle almost anything you need to ship, The UPS Store is a great option. They cover everything from regular UPS ground and air shipping to international deliveries and even freight.
And on top of that, they’re comfortable dealing with electronics, antiques, and those other bulky items. They’ll help you figure out the right packing approach, and they’re patient about making sure everything is protected before it is shipped.
When it comes to packing, they make things even easier. With custom boxes and plenty of protective materials, sending something fragile or oddly shaped feels much more manageable. However, that specialty packaging can get a bit pricey, especially for large items.
What ties everything together are their extra services. Mailbox rentals with a real street address, package acceptance from all carriers, and useful notifications make them helpful for freelancers and small businesses.
And with their printing, copying, and document finishing services available, it becomes an easy one-stop shop for getting multiple errands done at once.
Seamless notarization experience
“Went there to get a document notarized. The whole process was super smooth and efficient, which I appreciated. The notary was also incredibly friendly and helpful, guiding me through everything. Recommend them to anyone needing documents notarized.”
– Jo Varghese, Google Review
Outstanding support for last-minute shipments
“The staff onsite, especially Yari and Jaylin, were extremely helpful. I came in with a large shipment of over 30 packages. They graciously handled all of my needs, helped reorganize and package items and handled a store full of people as well. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. We certainly will be returning to this store just for Yari and Jaylens help again!”
– Emily Shapiro, Google Review
4. TimeCycle
Address: 230 N 2nd St # 1C, PA 19106
Contact Details: +1 215-627-7874
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: Closed
For those who need something delivered fast, TimeCycle is one of the quickest options in the city. Their Center City rush service can get a package picked up and delivered in about 15 minutes, which is a huge help when timing really matters.
They’ve also been doing this since 1989. Many long-term clients, such as law firms and offices, have been with them. These firms rely on them for court filings and regular runs.
Beyond their regular hours, they offer after-hours and weekend service when you need something moved outside the usual schedule. The only downside is that after-hours jobs can be more expensive.
They’re versatile with what they carry too. They handle everything from small documents to freight-type items. And for specialty tasks like subpoena delivery, their clear $15 flat fee keeps billing straightforward.
Same-day rescue for an urgent delivery
“Life savers! They were able to pick up my package in the suburbs and bring it to me in center city the same day. Will absolutely use them again!”
– Mar Bear, Google Review
Ready to help immediately
“Called 5 courier services, and Timecycle was ready for business and set my account up immediately. They even scheduled a pickup for me so I could grab lunch and not wait. So far, great job!!!”
– Jacklyn Fogarty, Google Review
5. Instant Courier Services
Address: 1341 N Delaware Ave, PA 19125
Contact Details: +1 215-425-7202
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Instant Courier Service’s reliability stands out, especially with their long history as a family-owned business since 1994. On top of that, they operate 24/7, 365 days a year, so you can send something anytime without worrying about business hours.
Their fleet is another strong point. They use sedans, vans, and box trucks with lift gates, allowing them to handle everything from small envelopes to 12-pallet loads without stressing.
Even better, clients also point out how flexible they are with different shipment sizes. Smaller packages go out in sedans, while heavier items are delivered in vans or trucks, making mixed deliveries much easier to manage.
The only drawback is that large freight runs can get expensive, especially when you need them urgently.
But if you ever need something handled through the airport, they also offer TSA-certified pickups and deliveries. This is especially helpful when you need items moved securely.
Efficient delivery service
“Mike at Instant Courier Services was extremely courteous and professional and was excellent in the efficiency of delivering the hardwood flooring to our house.”
– Lori Frio, Google Review
Always-on service with consistently reliable drivers
“Instant Courier is definitely top-notch!! They are available 24/7, with prompt professional delivery drivers every time!!! Pleasure to work with!!!!”
– Donna Grogan, Google Review
