Long carrying distances: the London plan
A London move needs a borough and full postcode as well as a building name. For a flat, send the floor, lift-door dimensions and any move-in appointment before asking for a vehicle size. A concierge booking and roadside loading permission are separate arrangements.
- Approximate carrying distance: include the details for both ends of this move.
- Surface and steps on the route: include the details for both ends of this move.
- Suitable loading location: include the details for both ends of this move.
Follow the route from the room to the road
Include long communal corridors, paths through gardens, gates and external steps. Estimate the distance and describe uneven surfaces or steep sections. If the load must cross a shared courtyard, confirm permission and access times. The route should be based on a suitable loading location rather than a hoped-for space.
Relate access to the actual load
Many boxes may require repeated carrying trips, while one large item may need additional handling. Describe heavy or fragile pieces and whether assistance is needed throughout. Trolleys are not suitable for every surface or item, so do not assume equipment will eliminate carrying work. Access changes should be reported before the agreed day.
Include these observations
- Where the vehicle can reasonably load and how far away it is.
- Any gates, slopes, steps or controlled doors.
- Whether the route is shared with residents or the public.
Resolve borough, building and loading bay
For an inner-London furniture purchase, ask the seller to measure the item in its travel condition and show the route from the room to the street. A pavement handover must be agreed explicitly; it cannot be assumed when a seller offers collection only.
For this long carrying distances request, explain any uncertainty about approximate carrying distance before accepting a quote. The collection-ready time, vehicle access and recipient availability must work together; a short driving distance does not remove the handling work.
Before you confirm long carrying distances
Send the full collection and delivery addresses, approximate carrying distance and surface and steps on the route, and photographs of any awkward access. Ask for a written scope covering the handling required at your London address.
Check the proposed supplier, price, vehicle or crew, relevant cover and any waiting arrangements. Do not release the goods until the booking and handover instructions have been agreed.