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.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Start with the information the customer should write down: a realistic count of boxes, furniture pieces and awkward items, plus the measurements of the largest two or three. Once you have that list, think about how long each stage of the day might take and build generous gaps between them rather than back-to-back slots. Note whether any item needs dismantling beforehand and who is doing that work, since it can affect your schedule. Record the hire dates you have in mind and whether there is any flexibility on either end, which is useful to mention when you ask for a quote. If something is still uncertain, such as the exact number of boxes, flag it as an estimate rather than a firm figure so the team knows what is settled and what may still change.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
Before you agree a collection time, gather the seller's full address, phone number and any reference for the item, then write it all in one place. Ask them directly about access: which entrance to use, whether there are steps, and where a vehicle can wait. If the item is large, request its dimensions and, where possible, the measurements of any doorway, corridor or lift it must pass through, then keep those figures with your notes. Agree a contact window rather than a single minute, and note the name of whoever will be present to hand over the goods. Decide what happens if the collection runs late or the item differs from the description. All of this can be passed on when you tell the team what you need to carry and the access arrangements.
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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.