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.
Details to Gather for a Delivery Job
If a business delivery is on your schedule, a little preparation goes a long way. Begin by writing an itemised list of what is going out, including quantities, approximate dimensions and any fragile pieces, since this gives the team what they need to suggest suitable options. Record the delivery address and a named contact there, with a phone number, so you can confirm receiving hours and any site requirements before setting off. Settle your hire dates and, if the run repeats weekly, mention that too, as recurring bookings sometimes raise different questions. Finally, ask what information the team needs for a quote so nothing delays it.
Recording an Unloading Plan
Suppose you already know roughly how the day at the other end will run. Rather than relying on memory, write the details down before the hire day, alongside the dimensions of the largest pieces and which room or bay each one belongs to. Note any access details worth passing on, such as gate codes, lift availability or restricted hours at the destination, and keep a contact name and number for whoever is receiving the goods. This written plan is also useful when you contact the team: knowing what you are carrying and where it is headed helps them match the job to the right van type. If anything changes, update the list rather than starting again.
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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.