All articles

Freight transport: planning collection and delivery

A practical guide to describing your freight, sharing location details and keeping the people at each end of the journey informed.

A GT flatbed truck carrying machinery outside a warehouse.

A freight enquiry brings together more than a collection address and a destination. A useful brief explains what is moving, how it is presented and who will coordinate each end of the journey. Gathering those details in one place makes the next conversation more straightforward.

Make the freight description specific

Start with a plain description of the items and the total quantity. Include known dimensions and weights, making clear whether they relate to each item or the complete load. Use a consistent unit of measurement and identify figures that are estimates.

Describe how the freight is currently presented, such as individual items, pallets or crates. If photographs are available, include current images that show the complete consignment. Where there are several different items, a simple list can make the information easier to follow.

Details to put in your enquiry

  • A description and count of the items being moved.
  • Known dimensions and weights, with units included.
  • The current packaging or presentation of the freight.
  • Collection and delivery addresses.
  • A contact person at each location.
  • Preferred dates and any booking references.

Talk through both locations

Explain where the freight is located and how collection is coordinated there. Include known site access information, opening hours and appointment requirements. If there is a dispatch office or nominated contact, add those details to the brief.

Do the same for delivery. Confirm who is receiving the freight and which address or entrance should be used. Raise any questions about loading or unloading arrangements with the transport team, rather than assuming the same arrangements apply at both locations.

Make the timing clear

State when the freight will be ready for collection and your preferred delivery date. If either date is linked to another booking or the availability of a site contact, explain that connection. Also note where there is flexibility.

For freight that is still being prepared, distinguish an expected ready date from a confirmed one. Let the team know if the quantity, dimensions or collection arrangements change after the initial enquiry.

Bring the information together

Keep the description, locations, contacts and timing in one message or document. You can then refer back to the same brief as details are confirmed. Contact GT to discuss the proposed move and any remaining questions.

Back to all articles