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
Choose the van around the load. Small vans work well for boxes, tools and light collections. Medium or long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment, while Lutons are better for bulkier house-move items. The available range includes Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB, subject to dates, driver details and availability. The exact make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are confirmed at quote stage, so the vehicle examples should be used as a guide to the type of hire available rather than a guaranteed reservation of a specific model.
Getting a Business Delivery Ready
If the van is being booked for a commercial delivery, a short checklist drawn up in advance keeps the enquiry focused. Begin with the consignment itself: list each item or pallet, note approximate dimensions, and mark anything fragile or temperature-sensitive. Record the recipient's name, full address and phone number, along with any preferred delivery window they have given you. Note whether they need warning before arrival and who will receive the goods if they are out. Check your own hire dates against the collection and delivery windows, and keep the access arrangements for both ends in your notes. Any questions about a recipient's site rules should be asked of them directly. Share the full list with the team when requesting your quote.
Moving Boxed Belongings
Where the job involves boxes rather than furniture, a room-by-room inventory is a useful starting point. Count the boxes as you pack, number them, and jot down what each contains so nothing goes missing at the far end. Group the boxes by room or destination so the list is easy to follow on the day. If some boxes are unusually large, record their dimensions so the team can consider them when matching you to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Confirm your hire dates and the access arrangements at both addresses, then pass the full inventory and any questions along with your enquiry.
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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.