Frequently asked questions

I'm sure that there are some questions that need answering no matter how trivial they seem and here is where I'll do my very best to supply the additional information you seek.
Any new relevant concerns or information not covered elsewhere on the site will be added as I get the questions posed to me.

What size van do you use?

I use a Ford Escort 75 van, this can carry a greater weight than the more common Escort 55 van. Maximum single solid cube load size is approx 1.6m (62") x 1.2m (47") x 1.0m (39") in practice the volume is slightly greater. Because of the shape of the bulkhead, items less than 125mm (5") in height can be slightly longer.

What is the maximum weight I can send?

Approx 400Kg - however please bear in mind that both you and the person at your packages destination will have to provide a method of handling items weighing more than 25-30Kg as I normally work alone.

Is there an extra cost for more than one package?

No, I charge only for the journey plus tolls etc, it doesn't matter whether your package is a single sheet of paper or a completely full van.

Can you take an item to N Ireland?

Yes, I can certainly transport your item(s) to N Ireland for you, but you must be aware that the ferry prices to N Ireland can be expensive for a return journey, this is because all goods vehicles have to pay the freight rates.

I can't pack my item, is that a problem?

Normally, no. As care is taken with every item I transport this need not normally be a problem as I always carry blankets and an old duvet in which I can wrap things, and straps to secure the load. However, if your item contains glass or is fragile, I would always reccommend that you do at least attempt to pack it in some way, even if it's only bubble wrap.

I'm not able to accept delivery, can it be left in my shed?

Yes, I can do this, but only if instructed to do so, I will require the instruction to be made in writing - an email giving specific delivery instructions will be considered as being in writing. I cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage once the package has been left, for this reason, it is preferrable if arrangements can be made to deliver to a neighbour or friend.

Can I book in advance and if so do I have to pay now?

Yes, you can book in advance and no, you don't need to pay in advance. I do ask that if for any reason you need to cancel or change any details of the job that you let me know as soon as possible.

Do you have a cancellation charge?

No, as long as you let me know at least three hours before the agreed collection time as I may then take other offers of work. Full details can be found in my terms and conditions section 8.5

Do you charge for tolls, congestion charge etc?

Although I do pass on the cost of tolls etc, these additional known costs are included in the price I give you before starting the job. If the journey includes any ferries, tolls or parking not known beforehand these will be added. Current known toll prices are (goods vehicle under 3500Kg):

Why are your prices higher than DHL, TNT or Royal Mail?

All journeys are individual and thus priced as such. I do not have a large fleet of vehicles on the road passing your package from depot to depot, instead your package, and ONLY your package, is collected and remains in the same vehicle for the whole journey until delivery. Your package is transported directly from the collection to the place of delivery and nowhere else, giving you a personal, professional and fully accountable service. This also eliminates any risk of your consignment getting lost or mis-directed.

Another couriers price is £xx why can't you do it that cheap?

Partly for the reasons in the answer to the previous question but it could be that the other courier may be travelling around your route or carrying more than one load. Also, if you received a very low quote (usually around £30-35) you need to ask yourself a few questions like, are you sure that the courier you called is, in fact, a courier and not someone trying to make a few quid on the side, do they have the correct insurances, are they a reseller for companies like DHL and TNT, will they collect and deliver when they say they will?
You may get a very good price but you will often find that you get little or no customer support if things go wrong.

I need to go with the package, can I have a lift?

Possibly. As I may go on to another job or return home via a different route I cannot guarantee that I will be able to offer you a lift for the return journey and you should be prepared to make your own arrangements to get back.

Do you issue tracking numbers?

No, there's really no need as there is only ever your goods in the vehicle, the load area of which is locked, your goods never leave the vehicle en-route and the vehicle only travels between the collection and delivery points. As a point of courtesy, I will telephone or text (your preference) you as soon as your package has been delivered. You may also telephone at any time for information regarding the geographical location of your items.

As a business customer can we have an account or regular booking?

In most cases yes. Please contact me to discuss a credit account or regular booking. Any credit accounts are offered purely at my discretion.
Note: I may carry out credit checks using agencies who may record the search which could affect your credit rating. I may impose a limit as to the amount of credit I am prepared to extend.

Why do you only use a mobile number?

Quite simply, because I am away from my office for long periods of time it is the best method to ensure that I am easy to contact. In the event that the number is unreachable for some reason, your call may be diverted to a different number or voicemail service.

Are you REALLY available 24-7?

Yes, the telephone number is direct to my mobile which is with me all the time, day or night waiting for your call or text. The fact I am available doesn't mean that I can or will work 24 hours a day.
The only time I may not be available is when in an area where the use of mobile phones is not permitted.