Send Your Bags Without the Hassle

1. 1
   Good packing makes a delivery go smoothly and protects your belongings throughout the journey.

   Hard-shell suitcases offer the best protection for clothing and valuables. If you are using soft bags or holdalls, consider placing fragile items in the centre surrounded by clothes for natural padding.

2. 2
   Label every item clearly with your name, collection address, and delivery address.

   Use a permanent marker or print labels and attach them to handles with cable ties. We recommend attaching labels to two separate points on each bag in case one becomes detached during transit. For multiple bags, number them sequentially so you can account for every piece on arrival.

3. 3
   Do not overfill suitcases beyond their designed capacity.

   An overpacked case with a straining zip can burst during handling, which causes damage and delays. A useful rule is that if you have to sit on your case to close it, it is too full. Split the contents into a second bag if needed.

4. 4
   Remove any loose items from outer pockets that could fall out during loading and unloading.

   Liquids should be sealed in zip-lock bags and placed inside a secondary container to prevent leaks. Valuable documents, medications, and electronics such as laptops should travel with you personally rather than in checked luggage.

5. 5
   Finally, photograph your luggage before handover.

   A quick photo of each bag from two angles takes under a minute and gives you a clear record of the condition at the point of collection. This is useful for any insurance query, though our careful handling means this is rarely needed.

The Delivery Booking Process

1. 1
   Airline excess baggage fees across UK carriers average between £12 and £65 per bag per flight, and prices climb sharply for bags over 23kg.

   A family of four checking four suitcases on a budget carrier can easily pay £100 to £200 in baggage fees for a return trip.

2. 2
   Giant Van's man and van service starts at £45 for a single run, often making it cheaper than airline fees for two or more bags on a domestic route.
3. 3
   Parcel couriers are another option, but they route bags through automated sorting facilities that are hard on zippers, handles, and soft cases.

   Items may be left on doorsteps or taken to collection depots requiring a second trip. Giant Van delivers directly to the door and obtains a signature, making it the more reliable choice for valuable or fragile luggage.

4. 4
   Driving with your own luggage eliminates these costs but adds the burden of parking, petrol, and time.

   For city-to-city trips where parking is expensive or limited, such as central London or central Edinburgh, using a luggage delivery service is often cheaper than the combined cost of petrol and parking.

5. 5
   Public transport with heavy luggage is technically free but practically difficult.

   Narrow tube doors, steps at many National Rail stations, and restrictions on large items during peak hours make it an uncomfortable option for anyone carrying more than one bag.