In the United Kingdom, obtaining an apostille for your documents is a necessary step for their international recognition under the Hague Apostille Convention. However, an equally important aspect of this process is sending your documents for apostille and choosing the right return delivery option. This article discusses various delivery methods and what might be the safest and most efficient choice for sending your documents for apostille and receiving them back.

When sending documents for the apostille, you can choose any delivery service you feel is suitable for your documents.

1. Postal Services: Regular postal services offered by Royal Mail can be used. For added security, opt for recorded or special delivery which offers tracking and insurance.
2. Courier Services: Private courier companies like DHL, FedEx, or UPS offer faster and secure delivery options. These services usually provide detailed tracking and higher insurance coverage.
3. Hand Delivery: Bring your documents to us in person. Hand deliver them to our office for peace of mind and quick delivery. However, depending on where you live, this may not be convenient.

We process thousands of documents every year. Choose a secure delivery service and send your documents for the fast apostille service we offer.

Once your document has received its apostille, the next critical step is its return. When you order you can choose from a range of delivery options that we offer.

1. Standard Postal Service: While economical, this option offers limited tracking and insurance. This could be a riskier option for valuable or time-sensitive documents, but it is the cheapest option.
2. UK Courier or Special Delivery: Offers more security than standard post with tracking and insurance. Suitable for more urgent documents where a degree of security is important. Ideal for the most valuable or time-sensitive documents.
3. Collection in Person: We also allow you to collect your documents in person. This is perhaps the safest option, though it’s not practical for everyone.
4. Overseas Airmail: For those on a budget this is the cheapest international delivery. Can take several weeks and has not tracking or insurance.
5. International Courier: Secure, fast and tracked to the door. Using DHL we ship your important documents around the world.

When choosing a delivery method, balance safety and efficiency. Here are key considerations:

• Value and Sensitivity of Documents: High-value or sensitive documents should be sent via the most secure methods, like couriers or special delivery services.
• Urgency: If you need your documents quickly, choose faster options like courier services.
• Budget: Consider how much you are willing to spend. Courier services are more secure but also more expensive.
• Location: Your location and accessibility to postal and courier services can influence your choice.

Additional Tips

• Insurance: Ensure your chosen delivery method has adequate insurance, especially for valuable documents.
• Tracking: Opt for a service that provides detailed tracking information.
• Packaging: Properly package your documents to prevent damage during transit.

Choosing the right delivery and return methods for your UK document requiring an apostille is a crucial part of the legalisation process. It’s important to consider the balance between safety, speed, and cost. Using trusted and reliable delivery services can ensure that your documents are both securely and efficiently handled throughout the apostille process.

Delivery times are a guide. They are provided to give customers an approximate time for delivery of documents. They are not guaranteed as we do not operate third party delivery services.