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.
Picking a suitable van
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 the Details for a Business Delivery
If your delivery is heading to a customer rather than your own premises, start by writing down every item on the consignment along with its dimensions. Note the recipient's name, phone number and any reference they expect, plus the delivery address and the hours someone will be there to receive it. Where several drops are planned, number them and record which goods belong to each one, so nothing is left to memory on the day. You might also ask whether a lift, loading bay or ground-floor entrance is available, since the answer could shape which van you request. When you contact the team for a quote, share this list along with your dates, and raise any question about the access arrangements at each stop.
Noting Where Each Item Is Destined
When a van carries goods bound for several addresses, a written plan keeps each stop straight. Before the hire begins, list each destination in the order you intend to visit, alongside the items bound for that stop and a contact number for whoever is receiving them. If something is fragile or needs signing for, mark it clearly on the list rather than relying on a verbal reminder. You may also want to note parking or gate arrangements at each address, since these details are easy to forget once the day is under way. Keep the plan with the hire paperwork, and if any address changes, update the list before setting off rather than amending it mid-journey.
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Last checks 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.