Oversized Pallet Delivery
Shipping standard parcels is straightforward, but when your goods don’t fit the mould, finding a reliable courier for oversized pallet delivery can feel impossible. If your freight is too long, too wide, or too heavy for a standard 1.2m x 1.0m base, many carriers will simply refuse to collect it. At Parcel Broker, we specialise in difficult jobs – not everything fits into a standard box.
As one of the UK’s original online parcel consolidators, we’ve spent nearly two decades building relationships with major freight networks that have the specific capacity to handle oversized, irregular, and heavy palletised goods. If you’re shipping goods like industrial machinery, large automotive parts, or building materials, use our comparison tool to connect with the best oversized pallet delivery couriers.
What qualifies as an oversized pallet?
To know if you need an oversized pallet delivery quote, first check whether your parcel qualifies. In the UK, a standard pallet footprint is generally defined as 1.2m x 1.0m (or 1.2m x 0.8m for Euro pallets). If your goods fit within this footprint, you can book a standard rate. Your delivery is considered oversized if it meets any of the following criteria:
Overhang
If your goods protrude over the edges of the wooden pallet base (even by a few centimetres), the shipment is oversized. You’ll find this often happens with goods like exhaust systems, piping, or large furniture.
Excessive dimensions
The pallet base itself is larger than the standard sizes.
Height or weight
The shipment exceeds the standard height limit (usually 2.0m–2.2m) or the weight limit for a standard tail-lift collection.
Why does this matter? If your goods overhang, they effectively occupy two pallet spaces on the vehicle to make sure they’re not damaged by (or do not damage) other freight.
How to book oversized freight delivery
1. Measure accurately
Measure the total dimensions of your shipment – the furthest point of the item to the furthest point on the other side, including the pallet base and any overhang. Being accurate will help to avoid refusals or surcharges.
2. Get an instant quote
Enter your dimensions and weight into our quote tool. Our system will instantly scan our network of freight partners (including specialists like Palletways and DHL) to compare costs and find a vehicle that can legally carry your goods.
3. Secure your booking
Found the right oversized pallet delivery quote? Select the service that fits your budget and timeline. Once booked, print your shipping labels, attach them securely to the shipment, and wait for the driver.
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Preparing your oversized pallet for transit
Large items are generally more susceptible to friction damage because they take up more space and are often awkwardly shaped. To make sure your items arrive in good condition, extra care is required during preparation.
Strap it down
Pallet wrap alone may not be enough for heavy, oversized pallet delivery. Use heavy-duty ratchet straps or steel banding to securely fasten the item to the pallet base.
Protect the overhang
If your item sticks out past the base, these edges are the most likely to rub against other freight. Wrap any overhangs in thick cardboard, bubble wrap, or foam to create a buffer.
Check stability
The lower the centre of gravity, the better! Top-heavy pallets are a major safety risk. If a driver feels the load is unstable or likely to topple during cornering, they may refuse to collect it.
Frequently Asked Questions
My item sticks out over the side of the pallet. Is that okay?
No – if you are booking an oversized service, you must declare the total dimensions of the freight (not just the pallet base). If you don’t declare the overhang during the quote stage, the carrier may refuse collection or apply surcharges later.
Do I need a forklift for oversized items?
Yes, in many cases. Standard tail-lifts have strict size and weight limits (typically max 1,000kg and restricted platform dimensions). If your pallet is too large to fit safely on a tail-lift, you must have a forklift available at the collection and delivery points to load the vehicle.
Is insurance included for oversized freight?
Our services generally include standard liability cover (typically £25 extended liability). For high-value items, you can purchase instant additional cover (up to £1,000) during the booking process. Business users shipping consignments valued over £1,000 can also request a specific goods-in-transit insurance quote before collection.
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