Pro FS despatches orders placed before 2pm on a working day the same day. The 2pm cut-off applies to all services, including international services.
What does the 2pm cut-off mean?
The cut-off is the point at which an order is included in that working day’s standard despatch run. For customers, it can make a material difference to when a parcel begins its journey, particularly where the delivery service selected operates on the next working day.
It is important to make the cut-off clear at checkout and in customer communications. A stated cut-off helps set a realistic expectation about when the warehouse will despatch an order; it does not by itself state when the carrier will deliver it.
What happens to orders placed after 2pm?
Same-day processing is not guaranteed for orders placed after 2pm. Where capacity permits, Pro FS may still process an order that day; where it does not, the order moves into the next working day’s pick-and-pack run.
Brands should therefore avoid presenting a post-2pm order as a same-day despatch commitment. If a later order needs particular handling, discuss the requirement with Pro FS so that customer messaging and operational expectations can be aligned.
Which carrier options are available?
Carrier options include Royal Mail, EVRi, DPD, DHL, Parcelforce and FedEx. The suitable service depends on the parcel, destination, delivery requirement and the level of tracking or signature needed.
Carrier delivery times are separate from warehouse despatch. They can vary by service, destination and carrier operations, so a delivery estimate should be communicated as the carrier service allows rather than confused with the warehouse cut-off.
What is the difference between despatched and delivered?
Despatched means the order has left the warehouse and entered the carrier’s onward delivery process. Delivered is the later carrier event when the parcel reaches the recipient.
Keeping these events separate gives a brand a clearer view of fulfilment performance. The warehouse cut-off concerns the part of the customer promise Pro FS controls, while delivery timing also depends on the chosen carrier service and events outside the warehouse.
Can weekend despatch be arranged?
Saturday and weekend despatch can be arranged in advance for specific high-volume weekend shipping requirements. This is usually used during peak processing periods or for specific high-volume projects, rather than as an unconditional routine service.
Early discussion is useful where a promotion, launch or seasonal peak is likely to create weekend demand. It allows the operational requirement, carrier options and customer communications to be considered together.
Why does a clear cut-off matter at checkout?
When customers can see whether an order is still eligible for same-day despatch, they have a more useful expectation before they buy. Clear wording also helps customer-service teams distinguish an order’s warehouse despatch status from the carrier’s delivery estimate.
For retailers, the practical task is to use the same cut-off in promotional messaging, checkout information and support responses. That consistency is particularly valuable during busy periods, when capacity and carrier services need to be managed carefully.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2pm cut-off apply to international orders?
Yes. The 2pm cut-off applies to all services, including international services.
What if an order is placed just after 2pm?
Same-day processing is not guaranteed after 2pm. If capacity permits, it may still be processed that day; otherwise, it moves to the next working day’s pick-and-pack run.
Is Saturday or weekend despatch available?
It can be arranged in advance for specific high-volume weekend shipping requirements, usually during peak periods or for particular high-volume projects. Speak to Pro FS about the operational requirement rather than assuming routine weekend availability.
How do I choose a carrier service?
Consider the parcel, destination, delivery requirement and the tracking or signature needed. Contact Pro FS to discuss the right operational approach for your orders.
Related reading
- Compare the total cost of 3PL fulfilment when reviewing carrier and fulfilment proposals.
- Plan a 3PL switch without losing momentum during the move.
- Track the 3PL KPIs that matter, including the measures behind customer-facing promises.
- Explore UK fulfilment for overseas brands with international delivery requirements.
- Talk to Pro FS about cut-offs, carrier options and peak-volume planning.
