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.
Recording What Goes Where
If you are moving house or clearing a storage unit, it is worth writing a simple list of what will travel in the van and roughly where each item is heading. Note the rooms or addresses involved, the number of boxes, any furniture pieces and their approximate dimensions, plus anything awkward such as a wardrobe or a mattress. If some goods are going to a second address or being handed to a neighbour, record the recipient's name and a contact number for each drop-off. Questions you might put to the team include whether a Transit or Luton suits the quantity listed, and what the access arrangements are at each end. Keep this list to hand when requesting a quote, because the sizes and counts often determine which vehicle groups are worth discussing.
Getting a Business Delivery Ready
For trade work or commercial deliveries, preparation usually starts with the schedule rather than the vehicle. Set out the collection and delivery dates, the addresses involved and any time windows the recipient has given you, then note a contact name and phone number at each destination in case arrangements change. List the goods going out, their approximate dimensions and any items expected to come back, such as returned stock or empty containers. If several drops are planned, number them in the order you intend to work through them and note whether any site has particular opening hours. When you contact the team, ask which van types suit the load described, whether a crew van is needed if a colleague is coming along, and what details are required to confirm the booking.
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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.