Why delivery charges vary so much on building materials
On heavy materials, freight is frequently a third or more of what you pay. Understanding how it is built up is how you reduce it.
Last updated: 30 April 2026 · 5 min read
Distance and vehicle
Freight is priced per trip against vehicle capacity, so the cost per tonne falls sharply as you fill the truck. A half-loaded tipper costs nearly what a full one costs.
Site access
Narrow lanes, low cables, weight restrictions and no turning space force smaller vehicles and more trips. Tell the supplier about access constraints at booking rather than at the gate.
Unloading and waiting
Manual unloading takes time and time is charged. Having labour ready when the vehicle arrives removes waiting charges entirely.
How to reduce it
Consolidate orders into fewer full loads, schedule deliveries when your unloading crew is available, prefer the nearest verified supplier once landed cost is compared, and give accurate site access information upfront.
The takeaway
Fill the vehicle, prepare the site for unloading, and compare suppliers on landed cost rather than ex-shop rate.
Compare live supplier rates or read the material category guides.