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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Listing What Goes Into Storage
Before anything else, write down every boxed item you plan to move. A numbered list with a short description against each box works better than a rough guess, and adding approximate dimensions for the larger pieces helps the hire team judge which van size suits the job. Note how many boxes there are in total, whether any are fragile, and which ones need to reach the destination first if the order matters to you. If items are spread across more than one room or address, record that too. Photographs of bulky objects can support the measurements you have noted. This information is exactly what to pass on when requesting a quote, since the team can then discuss which van option suits your list.
Details to Gather for Deliveries
When a delivery is the purpose of the hire, the information worth collecting starts with the recipient. Write down their name, a phone number and the address where the goods should arrive, along with any time window they have given you. It is sensible to ask the destination contact about parking arrangements, gate codes or access restrictions, since they know their own site better than anyone else. Record the total number of items, their sizes and any handling notes the recipient has mentioned. If several drops are planned, list them in the order you intend to complete them, with each contact beside the relevant entry. Sharing this outline with the hire team when booking helps them match the job to the right vehicle.
Explore other van hire areas
Things to check 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.