Courier Booking Guide: What to Consider When Booking Transport

Get it right the first time. Avoid delays. Keep goods moving.

Whether you’re shipping one pallet or a full trailer, these are the key checks that help prevent issues at the point of collection or delivery.

1. Choosing the Right Vehicle

Start with the basics:

• What are the size (length, width, and height) and weight of the goods?

• Are goods palletised or loose? Can pallets be stacked?

• Are the goods fragile? Do they need padding, blankets, and/or strapping?

• Any special handling instructions? (e.g. fragile, temperature-controlled, ADR)

• What are the loading and offloading facilities?

Based on this, we can advise on the following:

• Loading method: Rear, side, tail-lift, forklift access

• Vehicle type: Small van, Luton, 7.5t, 18t, artic, curtain sider, flatbed

2. Collection and Delivery Site Checks

Know what the site can and cannot accommodate:

• Are there height or width restrictions?

• Do the goods need to be delivered at a specific time?

• Are there any tight access roads, low bridges, or other access constraints?

• Are booking slots required?

• What are the gate or gatehouse opening times?

• Are there any road restrictions or timed loading/unloading areas?

• Are delivery or collection references required?

• Can you provide contact details for the collection and delivery points?

3. Access, Permissions, and Onsite Requirements

Avoid access issues on the day:

• Are permits or passes needed?

• Any PPE or security protocols in place?

• Is there access for the vehicle at the collection and delivery points?

• Is it a restricted site? (e.g. airports, schools, secure sites)

• Is this a timed booking or a delivery window?

• Will someone be available onsite to offload the vehicle?

• Are we collecting from another transport provider or freight terminal?