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.
Recording the Size of Awkward Items
Your first job is usually to work out exactly what is travelling, and bulky pieces deserve the most attention. Measure each large item's length, width and height, note whether doors, legs or handles detach, and jot down anything that folds flat. Add the smaller belongings to the same list so nothing is overlooked on the day, and mark which pieces belong to other people if the load is mixed. That record gives the team something concrete when matching your job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. When you ask for a quote, you could check whether the dimensions you have noted are sufficient for a recommendation, whether the hire dates you prefer still stand, and whether any item on your list is worth measuring a second time for accuracy.
Preparing a Business Delivery
If the van is for a commercial run, the details worth gathering go beyond the load itself. Confirm the delivery date and the window the recipient expects, then record their name, phone number and any reference they use for the order. Note the quantity of each item going out, along with the dimensions of the larger pieces, so the team can consider whether a crew van or dropside suits the job where available. Questions about the unloading arrangements at the destination belong with the recipient, so it is sensible to ask them directly rather than leave it until the day. When you request a quote, you might also ask how to describe access at both ends, and whether several stops on one route change the vehicle they would suggest.
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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.