Bought a big Christmas present second-hand? How to collect it without spoiling the surprise

Some of the best presents are found second-hand: a dolls' house with years of play left in it, a solid kids' desk, a play kitchen or a gaming chair someone has outgrown. The tricky part isn't finding it. It's getting it home and keeping it hidden until Christmas morning.

1. Pick the hiding place first

Before you agree a collection, decide where the present will wait. A grandparent's spare room, a friend's garage or a neighbour's shed all work. Check they're happy to keep it, and that there's space and a dry spot.

2. Check it with the seller

Ask for the rough size and weight, whether it comes apart, and if any pieces or fixings are loose. Keep small parts together in a labelled bag so nothing goes missing before the big day.

3. Sort out the timing

Agree when the seller is in, and when someone will be at the hiding place to take it in. If it has to arrive while the kids are at school, say so.

4. Getting it there

If it won't fit in the car, or you'd rather it never came through your front door, you can post the collection free on Pink Pumpkin Logistics (https://pinkpumpkinlogistics.co.uk), a UK site where local drivers send quotes for your job and you choose the one you're happy with. There's no obligation to accept. Put the hiding place as the drop-off address and add any notes, like "please don't ring the bell". We move the item only, so wrapping and putting it together stay with Santa's helpers.

5. Plan the last little hop

On Christmas Eve, you'll need to get it from the hiding place under the tree. If it's heavy, line up a helper now so you're not wrestling a dolls' house at midnight.

Happy hunting, and enjoy the look on their faces. 🎁