Plan transport around the goods you are sending
A route alone is not enough for an accurate quote. Packed dimensions, weight, handling facilities and deadlines determine which transport solution works.
Describe the shipment as it will be loaded
Give the contents, package or pallet count and dimensions including packaging. For different units, a list is more useful than total volume alone. The largest or heaviest individual item may determine the vehicle even when the overall shipment is small.
Light bulky goods take up space; compact heavy goods need payload capacity and appropriate lifting equipment. Loose material depends on quantity, properties and loading methods rather than box dimensions. Missing data can follow initially, but confirmed dispatch needs sufficiently reliable information.
| Information | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Packed dimensions | Door openings, floor space and capacity |
| Weight | Payload and lifting equipment |
| Stackability | Space actually occupied |
| Goods type | Protection and special restrictions |
Shared network or direct vehicle?
Groupage combines different customers’ consignments and may involve transfers. Direct transport may suit firm deadlines, sensitive goods or a suitable larger load. Part and full loads have their own capacity and operational requirements.
Check whether a delivery day or a narrow time slot is promised. Express is not informative without confirmed collection and delivery conditions. A published normal transit time does not guarantee every postcode, goods type or cross-border journey.
Check loading and unloading independently
A dock or forklift at collection says nothing about equipment at delivery. Describe both ends separately. A tail lift helps between vehicle and ground but does not automatically replace carriers, a crane or suitable ground for moving heavy goods.
Specify the handover point: kerb, dock, warehouse or a particular room. Narrow approaches, height restrictions, stairs and limited turning space may require extra equipment or a different vehicle. The recipient also needs to be available at the agreed time.
Compare equivalent transport scopes
Prices may use time and vehicle, distance, weight, volume or occupied loading space. A rate per kilometre is rarely sufficient alone. Some tariffs use chargeable weight that reflects space as well as actual weight; ask how it is calculated.
Compare approach and empty-return journeys, surcharges, handling, waiting, time-slot services and VAT. Check minimum charges and costs for changed dimensions or goods not being ready. Dock-to-dock service is not equivalent to delivery with indoor carrying.
For international movements, check clearance, duties and taxes, and possible intermediate storage separately. Make included charges, extras and information you must supply identifiable in the quote.
Arrange packing, cover and border formalities
Packaging must suit the goods and agreed route, including any transfers. Flag fragility, non-stackable items, dangerous goods, batteries and temperature requirements early. An ordinary transport enquiry does not confirm suitability for every specialist load.
Carrier liability and goods insurance are different. Check limits, exclusions and cover for your shipment rather than assuming insured means full replacement. Record condition and package counts at collection and receipt.
Cross-border shipping requires the purpose, invoice or value evidence and other necessary documents to be clarified in advance. Agree who declares the goods and who pays charges. Used or privately bought items are not automatically free of formalities.
Frequently asked questions
Can private customers request transport?
Yes. Describe the goods, approximate quantity and both locations. Furniture, vehicles or delicate items may need a specialist.
Do exact dimensions and weights need to be ready immediately?
Approximate details may support an initial assessment. Flag missing information honestly. Confirmed vehicle planning requires reliable measurements and weights.
Are loading and unloading included?
Not automatically. Agree assistance at both sites and the precise handover point. One driver does not replace every required lifting or carrying service.
Can goods be transported into Switzerland from abroad?
Yes, and in the other direction. Provide both countries and towns, then clarify customs, documents and charges alongside the transport.
