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Planning school deliveries and receiving goods

A dependable delivery starts before an order is placed. Confirm the supplier’s current charges, service and receiving requirements, then arrange a school contact and suitable access. This page is receiving guidance; Schools Direct does not fulfil retail orders, and references to free delivery do not establish a current offer or shipping entitlement.

Schools Direct editorialUpdated 2 min read

Confirm the delivery arrangement in writing

Ask the actual supplier to confirm the delivery address, expected timing, charges and any service limitations. Clarify whether delivery reaches the required room or stops at an agreed receiving point, and whether assembly or installation is included. Do not assume that a familiar phrase such as free delivery covers every site, item or handling requirement.

Check the school calendar and nominate a receiving contact with an authorised backup. Provide the supplier with the correct entrance and any necessary booking instructions through the school’s approved process. Keep personal staff contact details out of public delivery notes where a managed school contact will serve the task.

Prepare the site for the goods

For a furniture delivery, measure the route from the receiving point to the final room, including doorways and turns. Confirm what equipment or staff are needed for handling and installation. Have the premises team assess these arrangements rather than expecting reception staff to move an unfamiliar heavy item when it arrives.

Plan temporary storage that does not obstruct school activity. If several departments share one order, prepare a distribution list so boxes can be identified without being opened repeatedly. Keep items awaiting checks distinct from resources already accepted into classroom use.

Check receipt against the approved record

Compare quantities, model details and visible condition with the order and supplier paperwork. Record discrepancies promptly and follow the supplier’s current reporting process. Retain appropriate evidence of damaged packaging or incorrect contents through the school’s normal records arrangements.

Complete any installation or functional checks before treating equipment as ready for pupils. Pass the necessary receipt information to finance so invoicing can be matched with what actually arrived. Review recurring delivery problems, such as an incorrect gate or unstaffed arrival time, and update the school’s instructions before the next order rather than repeating the same emergency workaround.

Action checklist

  • Confirm charges, timing and the actual delivery service.
  • Nominate a receiving contact and backup.
  • Check access, handling and temporary storage.
  • Match receipt, condition and installation to the approved order.

Common questions

Does free delivery normally include carrying furniture to a classroom?

Do not assume it does. Confirm the supplier’s exact current service, destination and handling terms before ordering.

Sources and scope

Source titles are provided for reference. Check the current original guidance and your school's circumstances before making a policy or compliance decision.

  • Schools Direct editorial — Original school resource planning guidance and worked examples. Checked 1 November 2026.

See how we prepare and maintain our guidance.

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