How to Ship Plants Safely in the UK (Without Damaging Them)

Shipping plants can feel tricky, especially if you want them to arrive healthy and unharmed. Whether you’re sending a gift, selling plants online, or moving home, careful preparation is key. Follow our step-by-step guide to ship plants safely in the UK without damaging them.

1. Choose the Right Plant for Shipping

Not all plants are equally hardy. Some tropical plants or delicate flowers are more susceptible to stress during transit. Consider:

• Hardy plants: Succulents, cacti, spider plants, and ferns usually handle shipping well.
• Fragile plants: Orchids, bonsai, or very young seedlings may require extra care or special packaging.

Tip: If you’re selling plants online, note the plant’s fragility in your product description to manage customer expectations.

2. Pick the Best Time to Ship

Timing can significantly affect your plant’s survival:

• Avoid shipping during extreme temperatures (e.g., hot summer days or freezing winter nights).
• Mid-week deliveries are ideal; plants can stay in warehouses over weekends, which can cause stress.
• Use express delivery where possible to reduce transit time.

3. Prepare Your Plant Properly

Before shipping, make sure your plant is ready:

• Watering: Water the plant 1–2 days before shipping. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
• Pruning: Remove dead leaves and flowers to reduce weight and damage risk.
• Stabilising: Secure loose branches or stems with soft ties or padding.

4. Choose the Right Packaging Materials

Packaging is critical to prevent damage:

• Box size: Use a sturdy cardboard box slightly larger than the plant.
• Padding: Wrap the plant in newspaper, bubble wrap, or biodegradable packing peanuts to prevent movement.
• Support: Use stakes or cardboard collars for tall or fragile plants.
• Drainage: Place the plant in a plastic bag with a small hole to catch excess soil or water.

5. Label Your Package Clearly

Ensure your parcel is handled with care:

• Use “Fragile” and “Live Plant” stickers.
• Include instructions for the delivery person if necessary.

6. Select a Reliable Shipping Service

Several UK couriers offer plant-friendly options:

• Royal Mail Special Delivery: Fast, reliable, and trackable.
• ParcelForce Express: Good for larger or heavier plants.
• Courier services (e.g., DPD, Hermes): Check if they allow live plants and provide tracking.

Tip: Compare delivery times and handling care before shipping.

7. Inform the Recipient

Let the recipient know when to expect the delivery so they can unpack the plant immediately. Quick unpacking helps prevent stress and potential damage.

8. After Delivery: Plant Care

Once delivered, the plant may be slightly stressed. Advise the recipient to:

• Unpack immediately and remove any packaging.
• Water lightly if soil feels dry.
• Place the plant in a suitable environment (avoid direct sunlight or cold drafts).

Bonus Tips for Online Plant Sellers

• Offer shipping instructions on your website.
• Consider seasonal packaging for extreme weather.
• Invest in plant-specific boxes for repeat sales.

Conclusion

Shipping plants in the UK doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, packaging, and courier, your plants can arrive healthy and happy, ready to brighten someone’s home. By following these steps, you’ll reduce the risk of damage and ensure your plants thrive even after a journey.