Vehicle Dimensions and Street Clearance

Standard pallet networks dispatch orders using large 18-tonne heavy goods vehicles. These trucks measure approximately eleven metres long, 2.8 metres wide, and nearly four metres high. They require a wide turning circle, firm road surfaces, and good overhead clearance free of low-hanging tree branches or telephone cables.

If you live in a rural village, on a narrow country lane, or in a tight cul-de-sac with parked cars on both sides, an 18-tonne truck will struggle. When arranging your delivery, look for a delivery notes box to request a smaller 7.5-tonne delivery vehicle instead. A 7.5-tonne lorry is similar in size to an ambulance or large supermarket delivery van, making tight corners much easier to navigate.

Tail-Lifts and Pump Truck Limitations

Every kerbside pallet delivery relies on two pieces of equipment: the tail-lift and the pump truck. When your delivery arrives, review our advice on firewood tail lift delivery access to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The tail-lift lowers the pallet down onto the street. From there, the driver moves the pallet using a mechanical hand pump truck. These pump trucks operate on tiny, rigid wheels with minimal road clearance. They can only move across smooth, flat, solid ground: tarmac, smooth concrete, or level block paving. Pump trucks cannot roll over:

• Loose gravel or shingle driveways
• Soft ground, mud, or grass verges
• Steep inclines or slopes where 800 kilograms cannot be held safely
• High kerbs or steps

If your property features any of these obstacles, the driver must leave the pallet safely at the nearest kerbside boundary.

Kerbside Expectations and Delivery Costs

Before placing an order, familiarise yourself with kerbside drop rules. Our comprehensive guide on Firewood Delivery Day: Costs, Kerbside Drops and Access Tips outlines what delivery drivers are contracted to do and what falls outside their remit.

Knowing your delivery parameters helps you avoid unexpected redelivery charges. In addition, checking How Much Should You Pay for a Cubic Metre of Oak? helps you weigh up whether ordering smaller bags or paying for a dedicated small-vehicle delivery option makes sense for your property.

Preparing Your Property for Delivery

Ensure a hassle-free drop by clearing the area in advance. Move family cars out of your drive early in the morning so the lorry has open access. Sweep the drop area clear of leaves or stones. For a full walkthrough of delivery day procedures, read our guide on What Happens on Pallet Delivery Day for Log Orders?. Clear communication ensures your oak logs arrive safely right where you want them.