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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Information to Gather Before Your Hire Dates
The first step is a written inventory of everything you plan to move. List each item, count the boxes, and note the dimensions of the awkward pieces, such as a wardrobe, sofa or workbench, including whether anything can be dismantled beforehand. If the job involves a storage unit or a collection from a shop, record the opening hours and the reference numbers you will need on the day. Next, set out your preferred dates with a spare alternative in case availability differs, and jot down the access details at each address, such as parking arrangements or gate widths you already know. Any gaps in this list, like an unmeasured item or an undecided delivery window, are worth resolving before you contact the team, so the vehicle match reflects the real job.
Getting a Business Delivery Organised in Advance
For a commercial delivery, the paperwork often matters as much as the van itself. Start with a recipient list: for each delivery, note the name, phone number, address and any preferred contact window, so whoever is driving can reach someone if access is unclear. Record what each consignment contains, how it is packaged and the rough dimensions, then match those notes against your order forms to catch discrepancies early. Ask the recipient about site arrangements, such as where a vehicle can pull in or which entrance to use, since those answers belong to them rather than the hire team. If some drops are time-sensitive, mark them clearly in your running order. Open questions, like whether a signature is required at each stop, can be settled with the recipient before the date arrives.
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Last checks before booking
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.