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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Book
Start with a written list of every box you expect to move. For each one, note a short description, the room it came from and a rough count, then add any measurements for the awkward pieces such as rolled carpets, pictures or flat-pack panels that will not fit a standard box. If some items are staying behind or going elsewhere, mark them clearly so the final tally reflects only what is travelling in the van. Decide in advance whether boxes will be collected from more than one address and whether any need dropping at separate destinations. When you ask for a quote, you can share the total number of boxes, the largest dimensions and the access arrangements at each end, and ask which van would be a sensible match for that list.
Preparing a Business Delivery
Commercial jobs benefit from equally clear paperwork before a van is reserved. Write down the delivery dates, the recipient's name and a contact number, plus the exact address and any reference the customer expects to see on arrival. Record the dimensions and quantity of each item going out, and note whether anything is fragile, boxed, palletised or loose, since that detail helps the team understand what you plan to carry. If the delivery window is fixed, state it when you enquire and ask how the hire period would need to be structured around it. Where several drops are planned, list them in order with the contact details for each. These notes give you a ready-made brief for the quote request.
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Things to check 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.