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.
What order should your notes follow?
If your move were tomorrow, would your notes make sense to a stranger? That thought is worth a minute of planning. Build a simple list that records each item, its destination room or floor, and any notes about size or fragility. Number the entries in the sequence you expect to need them at the far end, so the list reads as a plan rather than a jumble. If some items are heading to a storage unit instead, record that separately with the unit details. Include the addresses and contact numbers for every stop on the route. A copy of the numbered list can accompany your quote request, giving the team a fuller picture of the job, while anything unconfirmed stays marked as pending.
How do you prepare a business delivery?
If a customer is waiting on goods, what details should you gather beforehand? Start with the recipient: name, phone number, and any purchase or works order they will quote at the door. Note the delivery address, the opening hours you have been given, and any reference number the site expects. Record the items going out, with quantities and dimensions where relevant, and set a target date within your hire period. Where the site has its own booking or slot system, that arrangement sits with the site contact, so ask them directly rather than assuming. Keep the whole record with your enquiry so the team can see the scope. Questions left open, such as a delivery window, can be updated as confirmations arrive.
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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.