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 to Collect for a Delivery
If a business delivery lands in your diary at short notice, the details you gather first shape the whole request. Start with a list of what is going out: item names, quantities and, where relevant, packaging type. Add the dimensions of anything oversized and note whether goods are boxed, loose or on pallets. Record the recipient's name, phone number and any delivery reference so the drop-off can be arranged without guesswork, and confirm opening hours with them directly rather than assuming. When you ask for a quote, you can then state the load plainly and ask which van options suit it. Questions about parking or access at the delivery address are best put to the recipient, who knows the site.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Measurements turn a vague request into a precise one, so take a tape to any bulky items before you call. Note height, width and depth for each piece, and write down whether anything can be tilted, folded flat or dismantled, since that affects how you describe the job. If you are collecting furniture, ask the seller for their own figures rather than estimating from photographs. Keep the list with your other booking notes so the same numbers go into every enquiry, and flag any item with awkward protrusions or fragile parts. Once the figures are recorded, the open questions become straightforward: which van size the team can offer on your dates, and whether anything about the load needs a second look before you confirm.
Explore other van hire areas
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.