Case study Luton to Ireland

Quick Summary

A UK customer shipped a 100 kg mini-quarter pallet of cutting discs from Luton to Dublin using Pallet2Ship. By selecting a 2–3 day premium service over a cheaper 3–4 day option, delivery was completed quickly before the weekend. This case highlights Pallet2Ship’s competitiveness across all pallet sizes (from oversized to mini) and the importance of carefully reading service details, including that all transit times are based on working days.

In February 2025, Hardware Europe Ltd, based in Luton, arranged an international shipment through Pallet2Ship to send a mini-quarter pallet (87 × 64 × 56 cm, 100 kg) of abrasive cutting discs to Dublin, Ireland.

On our website, the customer compared several carriers and selected Pall-EX Premium (2–3 working days). This option cost around £7–8 more than a slower 3–4 day service, but ensured faster delivery before the weekend. Choosing carefully is important, as all transit times shown are calculated in working days, and timing can make a big difference when planning deliveries.

The goods were securely crated, insured for £1,320, and all required documentation was submitted the same day. This ensured a smooth, delay-free process. The customer received tracking promptly, and Pall-EX collected on schedule.

Another important aspect of Ireland deliveries is that some services are available only for business customers, while others can also serve private receivers. Customers need to check the service description carefully to select the right option.

What They Did Right - Online Booking

• Entered pallet weight and dimensions accurately during the quotation stage, ensuring correct pricing and avoiding extra charges.
• Selected the correct service after reading the detailed description, including documentation, vehicle type, surcharge rules, insurance options, and transit times.
• Provided full and accurate addresses, including contact names, mobile numbers with country codes, and valid email addresses.
• Supplied a clear description of the goods and entered detailed product-level information in the commercial invoice.
• Submitted the commercial invoice immediately and uploaded photos of the goods before and after packing, enabling quick processing and extra protection in case of a claim.
• Communicated promptly with the receiver to ensure timely completion of the Ace Express certificate via our website, facilitating on-schedule collection.

What They Did Right - Physical Preparation

• Palletized the cutting discs securely by crating them.
• Ensured the goods were fully ready on the collection morning, with staff on-site during the entire collection window (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and clear access for the driver.
• Printed and attached four copies of both the commercial invoice and airwaybill/barcode labels in clear plastic wallets securely fixed to the crate.
• Monitored tracking regularly and followed up proactively with Pallet2Ship to confirm collection and delivery.

What to Do vs What Not to Do

Do This

• Use accurate pallet weight and dimensions during booking.
• Read all service information and booking instructions carefully.
• Provide complete contact details, including country codes for phone numbers and valid emails.
• Submit documents and photos immediately after booking to avoid delays.
• Secure goods firmly to a pallet with straps and shrink-wrap, or pack them inside a crate with foam and straps for extra protection.
• Print and attach four copies of the commercial invoice and four copies of the airwaybill/barcode labels in plastic wallets securely affixed to the pallet.
• Have the goods ready early in a suitable location — such as a loading bay or kerbside — with someone on-site during the full collection window.
• Maintain fast, clear communication with both suppliers and receivers to ensure documents are completed quickly and avoid customs or collection delays.

Avoid This

• Guess pallet size or weight — this leads to extra charges and possible rejection.
• Skip reading service details — you may miss key rules on vehicle size, notice periods, or surcharges.
• Leave out essential contact details like phone numbers or valid emails.
• Delay paperwork submission — late invoices or missing photos create avoidable hold-ups.
• Allow goods to shift in transit — poorly packed or unsecured pallets risk damage.
• Print too few or unclear copies of invoices/labels — missing paperwork may cause delays.
• Leave pallets in hard-to-access areas — such as blocked driveways, inside buildings, on gravel, or on a slope — as restricted access often causes failed collections.
• Communicate superficially or too slowly — unclear or late communication with suppliers, receivers, or customs agents is one of the main causes of delays.

Conclusion

Thanks to Hardware Europe Ltd’s careful preparation and Pallet2Ship’s support in selecting the right service, the shipment was delivered smoothly and on time. This case demonstrates how Pallet2Ship helps customers make smart service choices for Ireland deliveries, balancing cost, speed, and reliability.