Delivery
UK
Mainland
We are Mail Order Specialists, so
delivery is not a problem. We use a number of different delivery methods dependant on the size and nature of the order. The plant
quantity and size usually determines the method, but I would need to know the delivery postcode please in order to confirm the delivery cost.
24 hour carrier
We have used a 24 hour carrier for many years. The
plants leaves us
one day and arrive with you the next. Yes, accidents can happen, but this system
is fairly reliable. However, you do need to be aware that no carrier will
insure plants these days. They consider them to be "perishable " items
- and even if delay or damage is caused by their incompetence, there is no comeback from
the carrier. Choosing this method of carriage implies acceptance of this risk
and we will not be responsible for any damage that occurs in transit. We
have chosen our carriers with great care and have worked with them for many
years and found them to be reliable. Nevertheless, accidents can and do happen
from time to time. However, it remains the most competitive method of transport for
smaller orders.
Unfortunately due to ever increasing costs as the carriers streamline their system and increasingly dislike the larger packages that our plants often constitute, we have had to change our pricing structure again this year. It has become even more complicated so it is best therefore if you check with me first.
Pallet Delivery
The open ground plants are all too heavy for the normal carrier networks, so the best way of getting these to you would be on a pallet.
This is a brilliant system whereby the plants are fixed to the pallet at all times and are not man-handled. The other beauty of it is that you pay per pallet, regardless of how much is stacked on it! The cost
is determined by your postcode area and the standard service typically takes two days. There are other next day / morning / timed services available at additional cost.
I understand that
carriage by whichever method is a lot
for only one plant, but conversely, it becomes excellent value for a large
order. Try combining orders with family or neighbours to make it more efficient.
We have tried using the post in the past, and find the 24 hour service to be
more reliable whilst the pallet delivery is an excellent solution for larger
plants, a greater quantity of pots, or awkward shaped plants that are difficult
to pack.
Nevertheless as we continue to offer increasingly mature plants, they may be too large even for delivery on a pallet. In these cases we have other transport solutions.
It is important please for you to mention at the time of discussing delivery costs, any access restrictions that might be relevant. We will not be responsible for any inconvenience, delays or damage caused by unsuitable access.
Collection
Collection is of course no
problem. However, please remember that it is essential that we know you are
coming. It is always best to email me with your order in advance so that I can check
and confirm availability size and price details. The plants
can be ready for you. This in no way precludes you from spending as long as you
wish in looking round, but does make the process quicker during busy times when
availability of items needs to be checked and labels printed. Please be aware
that during the winter planting season, the open ground stock is lifted to
order. It is important to place your order far enough in advance of wanting to
collect it that we can have it lifted and prepared for you. This takes time and
care to do properly, and is weather dependant.
Offshore
Islands
Unfortunately, due to the associated costs of ferries, carriage to
"offshore islands" is more expensive. These include the Isle of Wight,
Isle of Man, Scottish Islands, Channel Islands and Northern Ireland, as well as the
so-called "Highlands" of Scotland. I know you
are all part of the UK and I apologise. However, it is out of my control. The
cost for each destination is different, so please ask. However, I can tell you
that it is calculated by weight. It is expensive for only one or two plants, but
subsequent additions add very little extra, so a large order is considerably
cheaper per plant than a small one.
Europe
Most of Europe is now covered by my carriers, and can be amazingly amazingly cost
effective. There is a height restriction of 1.5m on smaller
consignments, so please check at the time of ordering. I can send larger plants,
but they have to go "freight" which is only worth considering on a
large order. Let me know what plants you are interested in and I will give you
an idea of cost. No Ministry
certification is needed now, but there are a few plants that I am not allowed to
send.