Collection finder

In the meantime

How UK barrel collection points work

Most UK barrel suppliers/agents operate one of two models: door collection, where a driver picks up from your home, or depot drop-off, where you bring your packed barrel to a fixed collection point. Drop-off is usually cheaper — typically £10–£30 less per barrel — but means you need to transport the barrel yourself.

Drop-off depots are generally based in areas with large Caribbean communities: London (particularly South and East), Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Nottingham and Bristol. Coverage outside these areas varies by supplier/agent, which is why postcode-level lookup matters.

What to check before dropping off

• Opening hours — many depots are weekend-only or appointment-based
• Whether the depot accepts packed barrels or only empty ones for packing on-site
• Cut-off day for the next available sailing
• Whether contents need to be declared at drop-off or online in advance
• Parking — depots in city areas can be tight for large vehicles

Door collection: what to expect

Door collection adds convenience but requires booking a slot in advance — usually 3–7 days' notice. The driver typically needs the barrel at ground level, packed, sealed and labelled. If you live above the ground floor without lift access, confirm this with the supplier/agent before booking. Some suppliers/agents charge a flight surcharge; others won't collect from above the second floor at all.