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.
Writing down your boxed belongings list
Start with a notebook page or a phone note and record every boxed item you plan to move. Count the boxes, note roughly what each contains, and measure or estimate the dimensions of the largest ones, since a few bulky cartons can matter as much as a dozen small ones. Alongside the boxes, list any loose items such as lamps, kettles or pictures that will travel separately. Write the hire dates at the top of the page and add the addresses involved, including where the boxes are coming from and where they are going. If items are destined for storage rather than a new home, note the storage facility's name and your reference number. This list becomes the basis of your enquiry, letting the team consider which vehicle suits and prompting questions you may not otherwise have thought to ask.
Details to gather for a business delivery
Commercial deliveries deserve the same written preparation. Begin with the goods themselves: what is being sent, how many pieces there are, and the approximate size of the biggest item. Then record the delivery date or window, the destination address, and the name and phone number of the person receiving the goods, since a recipient who expects the delivery can answer questions about access, opening hours or where to present the items. If the run involves multiple drops, list each stop with its own contact and any agreed time slot. Note anything unusual about the consignment, such as fragile contents or items that must stay upright, purely as information to pass on. Sharing this summary with the team when you request a quote allows the vehicle choice and schedule to be discussed properly before anything is confirmed.
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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.