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.
Organising a household move
How do you turn a whole house of belongings into a clear hire request? Start by walking through each room and listing what will travel, noting approximate dimensions for the larger pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Estimate the number of boxes and any awkward items like mirrors or lamps, since a fuller inventory helps the team match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton or another option where available. Write down the access arrangements at both ends, including parking considerations you already know about, and confirm the hire dates with anyone helping on the day. If some rooms are still undecided, mark them as such. Sharing this inventory and your dates with the team lets them confirm an appropriate van and raise any questions they need answered.
Preparing a business delivery
What should you gather before booking a van for commercial work? Begin with a delivery schedule: the address of each recipient, their name, a direct phone number and any agreed timing window. List the goods being carried, with quantities and rough sizes, so the team can consider whether a crew van, Transit or another vehicle suits the run. Where a recipient has specific unloading preferences or restricted hours, ask them directly and record the answer, since those arrangements sit with the recipient rather than the hire team. Note the access arrangements at each stop as you understand them, and set the hire dates once the schedule is settled. Passing this information over when you request a quote allows the team to confirm the right van and discuss anything still open.
Explore other van hire areas
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.