Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
Fitting the van to your route
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
The most useful first step is a decision about what you actually need to move, so measure the awkward pieces before anything else. Grab a tape and record the height, width and depth of sofas, wardrobes, white goods, mattresses or flat-pack boxes, and jot down whether any item comes apart into smaller sections. Write the measurements next to each entry on a single list, including the number of boxes and bags, so the whole load is described in one place. With that information, the team can discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available. If something seems borderline, say so when you enquire and ask what they suggest rather than assuming it will fit.
Preparing the Details for a Delivery Job
If the van is for a business delivery, gathering the paperwork early saves a lot of back-and-forth later. Decide the hire dates first, then list each drop-off with a named recipient and a phone number you can ring if nobody answers the door. Note any time windows the customer has given, plus parking or access information they have mentioned, since you may need to pass this on. Record the dimensions and quantity of items going to each address so nothing is missed when the van is loaded at your end. When you ask for a quote, include the full list of stops and ask whether anything in the plan needs clarifying. Questions raised beforehand tend to be far simpler to resolve than ones raised mid-route.
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What to confirm on the phone
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.