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.
Moving Boxes of Belongings
Start by writing down what will actually travel in the van. Count the boxes, note their approximate sizes and jot a brief description of the contents on each label so nothing goes astray at the other end. If furniture is moving alongside the boxes, measure the longest items and keep those figures with your list. Decide which date you want the hire to start, whether it runs for a single day or several, and where the van will be collected from or dropped off. If a friend is meeting you at the new address, record their contact number and the hours they can help. Sharing this inventory and your dates with the team allows them to advise on the right van for the job.
Preparing a Business Delivery
For commercial work, the details worth noting are slightly different. List the items going out, their dimensions and the quantity of each, then note the delivery address and a named contact who can receive the goods on arrival. Record any time window the recipient has given you, since this shapes the hours you book the van for. Think about whether the run is one-off or repeats weekly, and mention the pattern when you ask for a quote so the team can see the full picture. If several drops are scheduled in one day, list them in the order you plan to make them. These notes give the hire team what they need to suggest a suitable vehicle.
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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.