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.
Recording What You Plan to Carry
If you have a house move or a large furniture purchase coming up, start by listing every item with its approximate dimensions. Measure wardrobes, sofas, mattresses and any flat-packed boxes, then note the total number of pieces. This record gives the team something concrete to work with when they suggest a small van, Transit, Luton or dropside. It also helps you decide whether the job fits into one hire period or needs spreading over two days. Alongside the item list, confirm the access arrangements at each end, including any parking restrictions or gate widths you already know about, and pass these on with your dates. If anything about the collection point remains unclear, note that as an open question for your quote request rather than leaving it out.
Getting a Business Delivery Organised
When a delivery is for a customer rather than yourself, the details you record before booking matter just as much as the van choice. Write down the recipient's name, phone number and preferred delivery window, plus any instructions they have given about where items should end up. If the goods include several separate orders, label each one and keep a running tally so nothing is missed. Decide your hire dates around the agreed delivery day, and think about whether a crew van is needed if a colleague is coming along. When you contact the team, share the load description, access details and schedule, and ask which vehicle options they can offer for those dates. Questions about the recipient's site, such as opening hours or unloading access, are best confirmed directly with them beforehand.
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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.