How to measure parcels, pallets and bulky goods.

Measure the outside, after packaging.

Use centimetres and record length × width × height for each packaged piece. Label all three measurements and describe the position in which the item must travel. Height is measured from the bottom to the top in that position.

Measure at the furthest points. Include handles, projecting feet, protective corners and any bulging packaging. For an irregular shape, imagine the smallest rectangular box that would contain the whole item and measure that space. If a form requires whole centimetres, round up rather than down.

Dimensions from a product listing may describe the unpackaged item. Check the goods you are actually sending. If packaging is not yet complete, identify the figures as provisional and confirm the final measurements before the transport is agreed.

Count the pieces. Weigh the complete load.

Give the weight of each item and the total consignment weight in kilograms. Include cartons, protective materials, crates and pallets. For identical boxes, state the quantity and weight per box; list different sizes or weights separately.

Use a suitable scale or obtain a reliable packed weight from the sender. Say if a weight is unconfirmed. A photograph or product name cannot establish it. Space and weight are separate considerations: a compact piece of equipment can be heavy even when it fits easily through a doorway.

For pallets, include the base and any overhang.

Measure from the bottom of the pallet to the highest point of the load. Include the pallet in the weight. Record the base dimensions and the full footprint of the goods if they project beyond it.

For example, goods extending to 130 cm along the length of a 120 × 100 cm pallet occupy a 130 × 100 cm footprint. State where and how far they overhang, and include a photograph. Overhanging goods need review and may need repacking or a different base.

Explain whether anything can safely be stacked on top, whether the load must remain upright and whether it is top-heavy or has vulnerable surfaces. A pallet count alone does not show the complete transport requirement.

Describe access at collection and delivery.

Include where the vehicle can stop, the distance to the goods, and any steps, lifts or narrow doors. For a Cornish lane or rural entrance, note tight turns, restricted width, low branches or gates that could affect access. A postcode does not explain these details.

For pallet movements, identify the equipment available at both addresses. Tell us about slopes, gravel or soft ground. A forklift at collection does not resolve unloading at the destination; a tail lift or pallet truck must be discussed and agreed if needed.

Add receiving hours, booked slots and site instructions. State any lifting assistance required before booking, rather than assuming the driver or recipient can provide it.

Make an item list that can be checked.

Use one row for each distinct package type. This example describes three pieces weighing 42 kg in total:

Add handling notes alongside the relevant item, such as “must remain upright” or “nothing to be stacked on top”. These figures are an example for describing a load; vehicle suitability still needs to be confirmed.

Put the details into one clear enquiry.

Have this information ready for your quote. For an international delivery or a job that needs explanation beyond the online options, use the same structure in an email:

• Collection and delivery countries and postcodes, with any additional stops in order.
• Collection ready time, preferred date and any essential arrival deadline.
• Item list, packaged measurements, individual weights and total weight.
• Packaging, required travel position, stacking restrictions and any unusual handling.
• Access, available loading equipment and receiving arrangements at each address.

If measurements, item numbers or access change after booking, email the update with your booking reference. Before collection day, work through our preparation checklist so the goods and the people handing them over are ready.