Measure and prepare a bulky shipment
Shipping delivers an item for continued use at another address. Disposal and recycling require a different service.
Limits depend on the service
Parcel carriers assess weight, length, shape and packaging. A long, round or irregular parcel may need special handling even if it is light. Limits differ between carriers and destinations.
Beyond parcel limits, pallet freight or an individual transport service may fit. An unpacked piece of furniture needing carrying upstairs is different from a ready-to-ship box. Compare the complete solution rather than the label price alone.
Measure the packed item
Measure external length, width and height after packaging, including protrusions. Different packages will need individual measurements later. Combined weight does not replace the weight of the heaviest unit.
Length plus girth means the longest side plus twice the width plus twice the height. A 140 × 40 × 30 cm package measures 280 cm this way. That figure alone cannot confirm acceptance: individual dimensions, weight and contents must also fit.
Match protection to the journey
Protect corners and sensitive surfaces, secure moving parts and avoid loose loops or protruding handles. A blanket might suit an agreed direct trip without being adequate packaging for a parcel network.
State whether packing, materials or palletising are needed. Declare fragile contents, batteries and liquids so acceptance can be checked. A handling sticker replaces neither protection nor compliance with carriage conditions.
Compare the full price
A parcel price may attract oversize, manual handling or special delivery surcharges. A transport service can add collection, packaging, carrying, waiting and customs work.
Compare identical packed measurements and handover arrangements. Check VAT, liability, insurance and failed delivery charges. Changed dimensions can trigger a price adjustment; confirm the final measurements before booking.
Define the handover point
Delivery may mean kerbside handover. Carrying indoors, stairs, assembly and packaging removal are not automatically included. Check collection access too and inform the recipient.
For overseas shipments, check destination-specific acceptance and customs documents. A second-hand purchase is not automatically exempt from import charges. Describe the goods and purpose accurately.
Record condition and packaging before dispatch. For visible damage, photographs, prompt reporting and retained packaging help the investigation.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a disposal service?
No. Delivery brings an item to a recipient; disposal or recycling needs a different service.
Does the item need to be packed already?
No. State whether packing help is needed; final dimensions must be confirmed before shipping.
Can a very heavy item be shipped?
Pallet freight or individual transport may work. Parcel limits do not apply to every transport service.
Will the item be carried indoors?
Only by agreement. Request carrying assistance if kerbside handover is insufficient.
