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.
Putting a Household Move in Order
Which items absolutely must travel on the first run, and which can wait? Answering this before you enquire about a van brings real clarity to your move. Walk through each room and write down what is coming with you, flagging furniture that measures unusually long, wide or tall, since those figures help the team suggest whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van is the right match. Gather the full addresses for collection and delivery, plus a named contact and phone number at the receiving end. If a storage unit features in your plans, note your access hours and reference. A complete inventory shared at the enquiry stage gives the team a clear picture to price against.
Preparing a Business Delivery
What does your customer at the other end actually need from you, and by when? Business deliveries run more smoothly when the details are settled in advance of the hire. Start with the goods themselves: list each item, its approximate dimensions and any quantity counts, so nothing is guessed at later. Record the delivery address, the recipient's name, a direct phone number and any preferred time window they have given you. If the site has particular opening hours or requires notice of arrival, ask the recipient to confirm that in writing and keep it with your booking notes. Checking whether a signature or reference number is needed on handover is also worth doing. These are precisely the details that help the team match your job to the right van.
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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.