You’ve ordered the pergola. Now comes the satisfying part: getting it into the garden. A pergola delivery isn’t quite like a standard parcel drop, though – these are large, heavy structures that arrive in multiple boxes, and a little preparation beforehand will make delivery day far smoother. Here’s exactly what to do.
Measure Your Access Route First
This is the step most people skip, and the one most likely to cause a headache on the day. Pergola boxes are long and unwieldy, and your delivery crew will need to carry them from the vehicle to your garden, which usually means navigating a side gate or passage.
Before delivery day, measure the width of your side gate and any narrow paths or passages between the front of the property and the garden. Check the dimensions of your pergola packaging (your retailer should be able to provide these) and confirm everything will fit through comfortably. If it’s going to be tight, clear any obstacles (bins, bikes, plant pots) in advance so the crew can move quickly and safely.
Prepare the Ground
Once you’ve identified where the pergola will sit, make sure the ground is level and reasonably firm, particularly if your pergola has posts that sit on (or go into) the surface. If posts are going into the ground, check the area for underground utility cables beforehand; your energy supplier or a cable avoidance tool can help with this.
For larger pergolas with footings, it’s also worth checking whether your local planning authority requires permission. Most domestic structures don’t, but it depends on size, position, and whether your property is in a conservation area.
Clear the Final Position
The area where the pergola will be installed should be clear and ready before the crew arrives. This means removing any existing furniture, pots, or garden features from the space. Not just a rough clearance, but enough room for two people to safely manoeuvre large panels and uprights. If you’re assembling on a patio or decking, make sure it’s dry.
What to Expect on Delivery Day
Your AIT Home Delivery crew will confirm a 2-hour delivery window by SMS and email, so you won’t be waiting around all day. As we get closer, you’ll receive a live tracking link so you can see exactly when we’ll arrive.
On the day, a trained two-person team will carry everything to your chosen spot in the garden, not just to the doorstep. All packaging is removed and taken away for recycling, so you won’t be left with a mountain of cardboard to deal with.
The crew will also unbox items in your presence so you can check for any transit damage before they leave. If anything isn’t right, it’s far easier to flag it on the spot than to discover it mid-assembly.
Before You Start Assembly
If you’re assembling the pergola yourself, it’s worth reading through the instructions before delivery day so you’re not starting from scratch when the boxes arrive (tip: you can usually download these from the retailer or manufacturer’s website). Most pergolas require basic tools such as a drill, a spanner, a spirit level – so make sure these are to hand.
If you’ve opted for an assembly service through your retailer, just confirm the details in advance, keep the area clear, and let the professionals handle it.
Planning a garden furniture delivery? Find out more about our two-person garden furniture delivery service.
