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.
Preparing a business delivery
When a customer order must reach a client by an agreed date, the details you collect in advance usually shape how well the delivery goes. Begin with the full delivery address, a named contact on site and a phone number that someone will actually answer, and note any time window the recipient has specified. Record every item going out, its approximate size and any handling notes the client has passed on, such as fragile contents or parts that need to stay upright. Where several drops are planned, set them out in the order you intend to complete them and note whether each location offers a loading bay, kerbside access or something different. Share these details along with your hire dates and ask which van options the team can offer.
Keeping a load inventory
A written inventory is one of the simplest ways to keep a hire period organised and to avoid disputes later. Before anything is loaded, note each item with a short description and, where helpful, a photograph taken on your phone. Tick items off as they go into the van and again as they come out at the destination, which makes it obvious straight away if something has been left behind. If you are collecting goods from more than one place, keep a separate list for each stop so nothing gets mixed up between addresses. Keep the inventory with the paperwork in the cab rather than in the load area, where it could easily be mislaid. A few minutes spent on this before setting off saves a great deal of confusion at the end of the day.
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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.