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.
Getting a Delivery Ready in Advance
When a business delivery is booked for a set morning, the details gathered the evening before often decide how the day feels. Confirm the order reference, the recipient's name and a direct phone number, and write down any instructions they have given about where to call on arrival. Ask them for a delivery window if one has not been stated, and note whether they would like advance warning of your arrival time. If several customers are expecting goods, list the stops in the order you intend to visit them and note quantities against each. Mention the whole schedule when you request the van, since the team may ask about the number of stops before suggesting a vehicle from the range available.
Keeping a Load Inventory
An inventory drawn up before the van is loaded serves several purposes. List every item by name and quantity, adding approximate dimensions for anything bulky such as wardrobes or workbenches, since those measurements help the team suggest a suitable van size. Note which pieces belong to which address if the job involves more than one drop, and mark anything that needs particular care so it can be identified at a glance. Photographs of valuable items taken before the move can be useful for your own records. Keep the list to hand during the day and tick items off as they reach each destination, which helps confirm nothing has been left behind. The inventory can also be shared with the team when you enquire.
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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.