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.
Details worth gathering for a delivery
If a business delivery is on the schedule, the groundwork starts with a written record of what is going out. List each item with its approximate dimensions, note the delivery address and the name of the person receiving the goods, and collect a phone number for them in case timings need adjusting on the day. Confirm the hire dates, including whether the van is needed for a single morning or across several working days, and check whether the recipient expects the consignment at a particular entrance. You can then ask the team which van option suits your list, whether a crew van is worth considering if a colleague is coming along, and what access information they would find useful. Any gaps in your notes are simply questions to raise when requesting a quote.
Getting a household move written down
For a household move, a room-by-room inventory gives you something concrete to work from. Record the larger pieces of furniture with rough measurements, count the boxes as you pack, and set aside anything fragile that needs its own note. Decide the hire dates once you know when keys or storage access are confirmed, and think about whether the job fits comfortably into one day or stretches over a weekend. Where a friend is helping, agreeing their availability in advance shapes the booking window. When you contact the team, you can ask whether a Luton suits your inventory or whether a dropside would serve certain items, and confirm what access details they need from you. Keeping the list to hand also makes it easier to spot anything you have forgotten.
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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.