Heavy Glass Delivery Checklist: Access, Offloading and Inspection

3 days ago

3 min read

Before a heavy glass delivery, confirm the weight of each panel, check vehicle access and arrange suitable offloading. Fusion Glass supplies glass curbside; customers must arrange the people and equipment required to receive it. Agree any special delivery requirement before ordering, rather than waiting until the vehicle arrives.

Before you place the order

Give us the full delivery address and postcode, together with details of narrow access roads, restricted parking, low entrances, steep approaches or other limits on vehicle access. A postcode can be serviceable even when the final approach needs extra planning.

Ask for the delivery charge and any postcode surcharge to be included in the quotation. Also confirm the estimated lead time and whether glass and metalwork are expected together or separately. Do not book an installation solely around a provisional production estimate.

Confirm individual panel weights

Ask for the weight and dimensions of each panel, not only the total order weight. One large pond window needs a different receiving plan from an order made up of several smaller panels. Give these details to the person organising offloading.

There is no single headcount that makes every glass lift safe. Shape, reach, ground conditions, access, equipment and the capabilities of the people involved all affect the plan. Arrange competent help and suitable handling equipment for the actual panels. If the proposed arrangements are uncertain, contact us before the delivery date.

Confirm the unloading method and packaging

Do not assume that a forklift, crane or lifting service is included with the delivery vehicle. If mechanical unloading is required, agree the arrangements in advance and ensure suitable equipment will be available on site. Do not rely on the driver to carry heavy glass through the property.

If the glass is arriving on an A-frame or stillage, ask how the packaging will be handled and whether it is being left on site, collected or retained for a charge. The receiving plan should cover the packaging as well as the glass.

Prepare for the delivery day

Confirm the delivery date and keep the receiving contact available.
Check the ETA information provided for the order; contact us if it has not arrived as expected.
Have the agreed offloading help and equipment ready before the vehicle arrives.
Keep the unloading area and route clear of obstructions and bystanders.
Arrange a suitable protected holding area with your installer if the glass will not be fitted immediately.

ETA information is normally provided shortly before delivery, commonly the day before. Traffic and route changes can affect timings, so plan for an estimated arrival window rather than an exact appointment unless one has been specifically agreed.

Inspect before installation

Inspect the panels carefully on delivery and before fitting. Compare them with the order confirmation, including dimensions, thickness, finish and any holes or cut-outs. Look for chips, scratches or other visible issues while the glass is still accessible for inspection.

Photograph any concern and contact Fusion Glass promptly, with the order reference and details of the affected panel. Keep the packaging and delivery information where possible. If a panel appears damaged or incorrect, pause installation and ask us to review it before it is bonded or fixed in place.