As temperatures drop and the comforting glow of a coal fire beckons, ensuring your home is ready for a coal delivery is key to keeping your hearth burning brightly. Whether you’re a seasoned customer of Charles Swann Coal Merchants or preparing for your very first order, a little preparation can make the process as smooth and efficient as possible. Here’s what you need to know.
Choose the Right Coal for Your Needs
Before preparing for the delivery itself, it’s essential to select the right type of coal for your home. From smokeless fuels for low-emission zones to traditional house coal, the team at Charles Swann Coal Merchants can help you navigate the options available. Consider factors such as:
- Appliance Suitability: Some fuels are specifically designed for open fires, while others are optimised for closed stoves, such as anthracite or smokeless ovals.
- Environmental Impact: If you live in a Smoke Control Area, you’ll need to use authorised smokeless fuels to stay compliant with legislation.
- Burning Time: Different coals provide varying heat outputs and burning durations, so select one that aligns with your heating needs.
Delivery Options
- Local Deliveries: Free within 15 miles of Wolverhampton. Minimum order 100kg. Available as open sacks or pre-packed bags (kerbside only).
- National Deliveries: Free nationwide. Minimum order 250kg. Palletised kerbside delivery.
For full details on our delivery policy, including excluded areas and terms & conditions, please visit our shipping policy page.
Create an Accessible Drop-off Space
When it comes to coal delivery, access is everything. To make sure your delivery goes off without a hitch:
- Clear the Pathways: Ensure that the route from your driveway or road to your coal storage area is free from obstacles. Move bins, toys, or garden tools that might block the way.
- Check Gateways and Entrances: If your coal store is located behind a gate or door, ensure they are unlocked and wide enough for delivery sacks or barrows.
- Alert Your Delivery Team to Hazards: Inform your supplier of any steep slopes, uneven ground, or narrow passages that may require special attention during delivery.
Important Note: For national orders, please ensure your delivery location can accommodate a 32-foot truck with a suitable surface (tarmac or concrete) if a tail lift is needed for pallets.
Charles Swann Coal Merchants are known for their friendly and professional team, and a little advanced planning will help them deliver your fuel as efficiently as possible.
Prepare Your Coal Storage Area
Proper storage is crucial to keeping your coal dry and in good condition, ready for use through the colder months. Here’s how to prepare your coal store:
- Inspect Your Bunker or Container: Ensure your coal bunker, shed, or storage container is clean, sturdy, and tightly sealed against moisture and pests. A dry storage area will prevent your coal from becoming damp and difficult to burn.
- Maximise Space: Aim to use up any remaining coal from a previous batch to create room for the new delivery. Overcrowding your storage area can make it harder to manage your stock.
- Protect Open Coal Stores: If you don’t have a covered bunker, consider using a durable tarpaulin or weatherproof sheeting to shield your coal from rain and frost.
Be Ready to Assist During Delivery
While Charles Swann Coal Merchants’ delivery team is experienced in handling loads of all shapes and sizes, being on hand during the drop-off can be helpful. You don’t necessarily need to assist physically, but your availability can make a difference if:
- The team needs direction to find your storage area.
- Clarifications are required about specific delivery instructions.
- You’d like to inspect the delivery upon arrival for quality assurance.
Friendly communication on the day of delivery ensures your satisfaction and reinforces a positive relationship with your coal supplier.
Safety First for Everyone
Coal is a heavy product to manoeuvre, and safety precautions are vital to protect both yourself and the delivery team. Keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid Lifting Heavy Loads: Let the professionals handle the coal sacks to minimise the risk of injury.
- Protect Pets and Children: Keep them safely indoors to avoid accidents around delivery areas or storage spaces.
- Be Cautious Around Freshly Delivered Coal: Loose coal can be a slipping hazard, so tidy the area promptly.
The experienced team at Charles Swann Coal Merchants understands the importance of safe, hassle-free deliveries and will always prioritise your household’s well-being.
Embrace a Cosy Season with Confidence
By taking the time to prepare your home for a coal delivery, you’re ensuring a smooth process and a continuous source of warmth for the colder days ahead. Clear access, good storage, and open communication go a long way to making the experience efficient and stress-free. For high-quality fuel tailored to your needs, Charles Swann Coal Merchants are your trusted experts in coal supply. Place your next order and enjoy the timeless comfort of a coal fire all season long!