Review methodology

How our testing team works

We ordered and tested every product and agent named in a scored review. A scored review means one of our editors bought the item through the agent under test, using a normal customer account, and handled what arrived.

• Order and timing. We log payment accepted, warehouse receipt, QC photo posting and delivery, then report the gaps in days.
• QC photo check. We compare warehouse photos with what landed on the desk, side by side, and note stitching, print placement, colour shift and hardware.
• Measurement. Garments are measured flat against the listing chart; smaller items are weighed on a 0.1 g scale and measured with calipers.
• Fit and use. Apparel is worn through a full working day by testers across three body types; hard goods are used as intended for at least a week.
• Cost. The final delivered cost is rebuilt from the checkout page, the consolidation invoice and the courier receipt, not from the listing price.
• Comparison tables. Like-for-like hauls use the same three-item basket for every agent so the numbers stay comparable.

Hands-on scores use the five-point scale: 5 excellent, 4 good, 3 adequate, 2 poor, 1 very poor, written as X / 5. Scores may occupy the full 1 to 5 scale, including disappointing results. A changed rate card, service condition or product batch calls for reassessment; the review identifies what was checked again and when.

Scope of the findings

A dated news update cites its source and does not receive a hands-on score merely because a service changed. Review results retain the parcel, item, basket, route and dates supporting the measured comparison.