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.
Organising a Household Move
What should you write down before a household move? Start with a room-by-room inventory, noting each item you plan to take, its approximate dimensions and whether it can be dismantled. A bed frame, a wardrobe and a dining table each present different considerations, so recording their measurements helps you discuss the right van, whether that is a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Set out your hire dates, including a buffer day either side if the move might overrun, and note the access arrangements at both ends, such as parking restrictions or entry times agreed with the property contacts. When you ask for a quote, include the full list and any questions about collection or delivery so nothing is left to assumption.
Preparing a Business Delivery
For a business delivery, the details worth gathering often differ from a house move. Begin with the recipient: who will receive the goods, their contact number and the hours they can accept deliveries. List each item with its dimensions and any handling notes the recipient should know about, then group deliveries by address if several stops are planned. Confirm the hire dates and whether the job might extend across more than one day, since that affects how you frame the request. If crew members need to travel with the goods, mention the headcount so a crew van can be considered. Finally, ask the team about the access arrangements at each destination, and put any questions about time windows or site restrictions to the contact at the delivery address.
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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.