Why preparation matters
Most delays on collection day come down to the same handful of issues: stock that isn't consolidated, missing paperwork, or access that hasn't been arranged in advance. None of these are difficult to solve, but they need to be dealt with before the collection vehicle arrives rather than on the day itself.
Palletising your stock
Where possible, consolidate loose boxes and items onto standard UK pallets (typically 1200mm x 1000mm) and shrink-wrap them for transport. This protects the goods in transit and allows the collection team to load using a pallet truck or forklift rather than moving items by hand, which speeds up loading considerably.
- Keep pallet heights reasonable and stable — overloaded or leaning pallets slow down loading and risk damage
- Group similar products together on the same pallet where you can
- Label pallets clearly if the lot contains multiple product types or conditions
- Keep pallets accessible — avoid stacking them behind other stock that isn't part of the sale
Manifests and documentation
A manifest is simply a list of what's included in the lot — ideally with SKU or product name, quantity, and condition. It doesn't need to be complicated; a spreadsheet is fine. Having this ready before collection means the buyer's team can check the load against what was agreed, which speeds up sign-off and payment on the day.
Sorting access and site logistics
Before a collection is booked, check what access the collection vehicle will need. This includes confirming whether there's a loading bay or ground-level access, whether a forklift or pallet truck will be needed on-site, and whether there are any restrictions on vehicle size, delivery times, or parking — particularly common in city centre locations.
If the site has security requirements, such as ID checks or booked delivery slots, let the buyer know as early as possible so this can be arranged in advance rather than causing delays on the day.
A simple pre-collection checklist
- Stock consolidated onto pallets or clearly grouped if not palletised
- Manifest or stock list ready to hand over
- Access confirmed — loading bay, forklift availability, vehicle size restrictions
- Any damaged or excluded items separated out and clearly marked
- A named contact on-site for the collection team