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 Business Delivery Ready
Suppose a delivery of stock is due to go out to a customer on a set morning. Before asking for a quote, gather the details that will shape the request: the delivery date, the collection window, the recipient's name and a phone number for whoever will receive the goods. Note the address, any gate codes or access constraints the recipient has mentioned, and a preferred arrival time if one was agreed. Listing the items, with a count of each, helps describe the job clearly when you enquire. It is also sensible to record what should happen if nobody is available on arrival, whether the goods can be left, and who to call if plans change during the day. These notes can be attached to the enquiry.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Large or awkward pieces deserve a bit of preparation before any booking conversation. Work through the load list and record the length, width and height of each bulky item, whether that is a wardrobe, a sheet of material or a rolled rug. Note anything that cannot be dismantled, along with any parts that come off and can travel separately. Count the total number of pieces so nothing is guessed at later. If an item's shape is unusual, a short written description or a note of its longest dimension can be more useful than a rough guess. Pass these figures to the team with the hire dates and access details, and ask which van size they would suggest for that combination. Where a measurement is uncertain, measure twice and note both readings.
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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.