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.
Preparing a Business Delivery
If a delivery is part of your hire, start by writing down what the recipient expects. Record their name, a phone number and any reference they use for the order, then note the delivery window they have suggested and whether someone will be there to receive the goods. You might also list each item heading out, its approximate dimensions and any handling notes the recipient has given you, such as which room furniture belongs in. Checking these details with the recipient before you request a van leaves fewer questions open on the day. It is worth asking them about entrance widths, lift availability or access restrictions at their end, since those answers belong with them rather than the hire team. Once your notes are complete, the cargo list and dates can be passed on together, and the team can talk through which van options might suit the job.
Planning the Unloading Order
Some hirers find it useful to sketch the order in which items will come off the van at each stop. If you are making several drops, you could number every piece on your list and mark which address each belongs to, noting bulky or awkward shapes separately so they are easy to identify later. Recording item dimensions against each entry, plus whether anything disassembles, gives you a reference to work from when the van is being matched to the load. You might also note where keys, trolleys or tools will be kept during transit and who at each address should be contacted on arrival. These notes stay with you rather than forming part of the booking, but having them ready makes the hire dates and access arrangements you pass to the team more complete. If plans shift, a numbered list is straightforward to reorder.
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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.