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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Organising a Household Move
What needs to move, and when? Answering those two questions in writing gives the whole job a spine. Begin with a room-by-room list, recording each item and, for the bulky pieces, its approximate measurements. Count the boxes and bags separately so the totals are easy to check later. Flag anything destined for storage rather than the new address, since that may suggest a different order of stops. Settle the dates next, including the earliest day the van could be collected and the latest everything must be delivered, and note any key handover or completion appointments that fall between them. Gather contact details for whoever receives items at each end. When asking for a quote, you can then state the load, the access arrangements and the hire window, and ask whether a crew van would suit if helpers are travelling too.
Preparing a Business Delivery
A delivery run planned on paper is easier to brief than one assembled on the morning itself. List each consignment with its recipient, address and phone number, plus a preferred delivery window if the customer has stated one. Record parcel counts and, for oversized goods, the dimensions and any handling notes the recipient has provided, such as a goods entrance to use. Order the stops in a way that makes sense to you, then check whether any recipient's hours change that sequence. Note the dates and times available for the run, whether a signature is required anywhere and who at your own business holds the booking if several people are involved. Questions that remain open might include the van size needed for the largest single item and whether a crew van is required so colleagues can help with handovers at each stop.
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Things to check 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.