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.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
Before settling on a van size, list the hobby gear you intend to move and measure the awkward pieces. A canoe, a set of dive cylinders or a market stall frame each present different questions, and noting length, width and height for each item gives the team something concrete to work with when matching you to a small van, Transit or Luton. Consider the dates too: if the equipment is needed for a weekend event and returned afterwards, a two-day hire may fit better than a single day. Where the gear is being dropped at a club, storage site or another person's address, keep that recipient's contact details to hand and note any times they expect to be available. If you have questions about vehicle availability or the quote, raise them when you first get in touch.
Preparing a Business Delivery
For trade and delivery work, the starting decision is often how many drops you expect to make and whether one van can cover them all. Write down each item or consignment with its dimensions and any notes on quantity, since the team can only match the job to a dropside or crew van once they know what is going where. The hire dates should account for the whole run, including any return leg to base. At the receiving end, record who will accept each delivery, their phone number and any window in which they are available, and if a customer site has its own access rules or loading-bay times, those questions belong with the site contact. When you request a quote, you can ask about the vehicle options, hire duration and anything still unresolved.
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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.