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.
Details worth noting for a delivery run
If the van is booked for a business delivery, begin by listing every consignment scheduled for that day. For each one, record the recipient's name, contact number and delivery window, plus any reference the site uses to match goods to orders. Measure or estimate the dimensions of the largest crates and pallets, and note whether anything is a non-standard shape that deserves a mention. Decide in advance who signs at each address and what happens if nobody answers, since a quick phone call may resolve a failed drop-off. With this information written down, you can describe the job accurately when asking about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and raise any open questions about timing in the same enquiry.
Keeping helpers and timings in step
Should friends or colleagues be helping on the day, agree their roles before the van arrives rather than on the doorstep. Note who is available at which hours, who holds keys to the old and new properties, and who will wait with any items that cannot be moved straight away. If a helper is only free for part of the day, record that, because it may shape when each stage needs to happen. Collect everyone's mobile numbers in one place and nominate a single point of contact for changes. When you request the van, mention how many people are involved and the hours you expect to need it, then ask whether anything about the arrangement is still unclear.
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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.