Most online stores in the paving stone industry do not offer delivery by HIAB (lorry-mounted crane). This service is generally available only from local building suppliers or a small number of major building material sales leaders, and it typically requires prior arrangement, suitable site access, and an additional delivery charge.
Paving Slabs Direct Standard Delivery – Tail Lift Kerbside Transport
At Paving Slabs Direct, tail lift kerbside delivery is our standard and most practical method for transporting palletised stone products across the UK. This method is widely adopted throughout the building-materials industry for one-way pallet deliveries. Using a tail lift, the driver safely lowers the pallet to ground level and positions it at the kerbside with a manual pallet truck. It is a reliable, cost-efficient solution that allows delivery to be completed by a single driver without the need for additional handling equipment.
Kerbside Delivery & Driver Responsibility
Once the pallet has been placed at the kerbside, the delivery is deemed complete. Any request to move the pallet beyond the kerbside—such as onto a driveway or closer to a property—must be discussed directly with the driver and is entirely at the driver’s discretion. In line with standard pallet-network procedures, drivers will only move pallets to locations they consider safe, level and accessible. Where site conditions are unsuitable, the pallet will be left at the nearest safe kerbside point.
National Pallet Network Operation
UK pallet distribution operates through large nationwide networks, typically comprising around 200 depots and hundreds of individual drivers. As a result, individual delivery experiences may vary and should not be viewed as a direct reflection of Paving Slabs Direct. Once goods leave our warehouse, final delivery is carried out by third-party logistics partners. That said, we work exclusively with established and reputable pallet networks to ensure consistent, professional handling wherever possible.
Tail Lift Limitations & Returns
Tail lift vehicles have inherent weight limitations, particularly when handling returns. Pallets weighing approximately 900–980 kg often exceed the safe operating capacity of standard tail lifts. In such cases, alternative arrangements may be required, including vehicles equipped with higher-capacity tail lifts, crane-assisted lorries, or on-site mechanical handling equipment.
Return Transport Arrangements
For any return shipment, it is essential that weight, access conditions and unloading requirements are clearly communicated and agreed in advance with the transport provider. Proper planning ensures the correct vehicle and equipment are allocated, allowing pallets to be handled safely and efficiently without delay or risk of damage.