Ask for the whole journey
Where will the parcel be collected, where will it arrive and who completes the final delivery? Ask whether any legs of the journey are handled by another company.
Confirm the package details
Give the actual packed dimensions, weight, contents and condition. Ask the carrier what it will accept and what documents it needs before handing over the parcel.
Ask about exclusions
Confirm which charges are included and who handles any destination charges. Ask about insurance or cover, exclusions, claims evidence and deadlines. Keep written answers with the quote.
Keep a record
Photograph the packing, keep an item list and save the receipt and tracking details. Use the ACROSS worksheet to compare quotes in one currency without treating missing charges as free.
Keep the handover clear
Make a list of everything in the parcel and take photographs before sealing it. Record the packed measurements rather than estimating from the item alone. Ask the carrier to explain excluded goods, packing requirements and the process for reporting damage or loss. Confirm whether a quoted delivery time is an estimate and what happens if the recipient is unavailable. Share the tracking reference and collection instructions with the recipient. Keep any customs or value documents accurate and ask the carrier what documentation is required for your particular shipment.
