Choose the right packaging
Use strong boxes that are the right size for what's inside. Overfilled boxes can split, and half-empty boxes can crush. Fill gaps with paper or bubble wrap so items don't move around.
- Double-walled boxes for heavy items
- Bubble wrap or paper for fragile items
- Blankets or furniture covers for large pieces
- Strong packing tape on every seam
Pack fragile items carefully
Wrap glass, ceramics and electronics individually. Pack them tightly so they can't move, and mark boxes clearly as fragile. For mirrors and pictures, protect corners with cardboard and tape across the glass. Mark the job as fragile so drivers know before they accept.
Measure everything
Measure the height, width and depth of each large item. For furniture, measure at the widest points, including arms, legs and handles. Measure doorways and stairs at both addresses too. Accurate sizes help match the right vehicle and avoid surprises on the day.
Estimate the weight
Give a rough weight for heavy items and boxes. Drivers use this to choose a suitable vehicle and decide whether two people are needed. Keep individual boxes to a weight that can be carried safely.
Label clearly
Label every box with what's inside and where it's going. For deliveries to someone else, add their name and phone number. For multi-drop jobs, label items with the address they're going to.
Describe access at both ends
Access affects how long a job takes. Tell drivers about:
- Floor levels, stairs and lifts
- Where the vehicle can park and any restrictions
- Narrow hallways, gates or tight corners
- Building rules, loading bays or booking times
Be ready on the day
Have everything packed and in one place before the driver arrives. Clear a path to the door. Make sure someone is at the pickup and drop-off, or add a contact who can meet the driver. You can follow your driver live and get photo proof at delivery.
Book the right job
Need it moved now? Use ASAP Transport. Planning ahead? Post a Bid Job to compare quotes, or set your own price with a Fixed Price Job.
Appliances and electronics
Disconnect appliances ahead of time. Defrost and dry fridges and freezers, and drain washing machines and fit transit bolts if you have them. Pack computers and televisions in their original boxes where possible, or wrap them well and mark them fragile.
Items that can't be carried
Some items aren't suitable for a standard courier, such as flammable liquids, gas bottles, chemicals or anything illegal. If you're unsure, ask before you book. Remove fuel from garden machinery and empty paint tins.
Sending to someone else
If you're sending items to a friend, family member or customer, add their name and phone number and tell them a driver is coming. They can meet the driver and you'll get photo proof when it's delivered.
Preparing large furniture
Empty drawers and cupboards before the driver arrives, as full furniture is heavier and can break. Remove glass shelves and pack them separately. Tape doors and drawers closed with low-tack tape, and wrap furniture in blankets to protect corners. Keep fixings from dismantled items in a labelled bag.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common problems are underestimating sizes, using weak or oversized boxes and forgetting to mention stairs or parking. Others include leaving items unpacked when the driver arrives and not telling the recipient a delivery is on the way. A quick check through this guide before booking avoids most of them.
A quick checklist
Before the driver arrives:
- Everything packed, sealed and labelled
- Fragile items wrapped and marked
- Sizes and weights added to the job
- Access and parking notes up to date
- Someone ready at pickup and drop-off
In summary
Pack items securely, measure and weigh them, label clearly and describe access at both ends. Then choose ASAP Transport, a Bid Job or a Fixed Price Job and follow your driver live.