UK-to-Europe Road Freight: The Booking Information We Need Before Collection

Booking road freight from the UK into Europe is easier when the essential information is ready before collection. Every movement is different, but clear details at the start help us understand the load, confirm the right vehicle and flag any information that needs checking before the job is planned.

This is an operational checklist, not customs, tax or legal advice. Requirements can change depending on the goods, route and parties involved, so please tell us as much as possible when you request a quote or book a job.

1. Collection and delivery contacts

Please provide the full collection and delivery addresses, including the company name, contact name and a working telephone number for each site. It also helps to include opening hours, booking references, loading-bay instructions, site-access restrictions and any deadline that matters to the recipient.

2. A clear description of the goods

Tell us what is being moved in plain language. Include the number of pallets, cartons or pieces; dimensions; gross weight; packaging type; whether pallets can be stacked; and whether a tail lift, forklift or other loading equipment is needed. If the load is fragile, high value, temperature-sensitive, regulated or needs special handling, tell us before booking so the movement can be assessed correctly.

3. Commercial information to prepare early

For commercial goods, the goods description, invoice value and currency, country of origin and commodity code where available can all be relevant. An EORI number and the parties responsible for any customs process may also be needed depending on the movement. Sending the relevant commercial information early gives time to check what is required for that shipment.

4. Timing, vehicle and site constraints

Tell us whether collection or delivery is fixed, time-critical or flexible. Share any restrictions that affect vehicle choice, such as narrow access, low bridges, limited loading hours, a requirement for a tail lift, or a maximum vehicle size. For urgent movements, please explain the real delivery deadline rather than only saying ASAP.

5. Paperwork and references

Where applicable, send the paperwork and instructions that travel with the goods, such as a commercial invoice, packing list, purchase order, delivery note, customs reference or recipient reference. We will tell you if any information appears to be missing from the operational handover, but customers should obtain their own specialist customs or tax advice where needed.

Before collection: a practical checklist

• Full addresses and live contacts for collection and delivery
• Accurate dimensions, weight, pallet count and loading requirements
• Goods description and commercial information available for the shipment
• Collection and delivery windows, booking references and site instructions
• Any access, vehicle, handling or special-goods constraints
• Relevant paperwork supplied in good time

Need help choosing the right service?

G&T Express can help you plan a European road-freight movement around the load, timing and collection or delivery requirements you provide. For wider service options, see our European Freight service and UK Haulage service, or request a quote with the checklist above.

Last reviewed: 18 August 2026 by the G&T Express Operations Team.