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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Enquire
Start by writing down what you plan to move, box by box, rather than guessing at the total. Note roughly how many boxes there are, whether any are unusually shaped, and which rooms they come from, since a room-by-room list is easier to check against later. Record the dimensions of the largest boxes with a tape measure, including height, width and depth, and jot down any items that will not fit inside a box, such as rolled rugs or loose lamp bases. If some belongings are going to storage and others to a new address, keep those lists separate. Note the hire dates you have in mind and any access arrangements you already know about at each end. When you contact the team, you can share the full list and ask which van size they would suggest for the load you have described.
Getting a Business Delivery Ready
For a commercial delivery, the first decision is usually what the recipient expects and when. Write down the delivery address, a named contact there, and a phone number you can ring on the day if plans change. Note the contents of each consignment, the number of items and their dimensions, plus any handling requirements the recipient has mentioned. Record your preferred hire dates and times, including whether you might need the van for part of a day or a full one. Check whether the recipient has specific arrival windows or booking-in procedures and note these alongside the address. If you are unsure which van suits the volume, ask the team for their view when you enquire, giving the measurements you have gathered so they can advise on the right match.
Explore other van hire areas
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.