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.
Getting a business delivery ready
If you are delivering goods to a client, a few notes made in advance can clarify what to ask for. Begin with the delivery date and the window in which it must arrive, then list every item going out: quantities, dimensions and any handling notes the recipient has given you. Record the recipient's name, phone number and any reference they use for the order, so nothing depends on memory on the day. Check whether the destination expects a specific entrance, a booking slot or paperwork on arrival, and write those requirements down. Where several deliveries are scheduled, note the order you plan to attempt them and the contact for each. When you request a quote, share the item list, dates and access details, and ask any open questions about vehicle suitability before confirming.
Listing boxed belongings for a move
Suppose your move consists mainly of boxed items rather than furniture. Even then, a written inventory helps you communicate clearly. Count the boxes by size, since twenty small cartons presents differently from twenty large ones, and note anything oversized such as rolled rugs, picture frames or flat-packed shelving. Record the contents category for each group if you can, which is useful both for your own unpacking and for explaining the job. Set out your preferred dates and whether there is any flexibility, plus the access arrangements at each end. If helpers are involved, keep their availability alongside the box list. When you contact the team, provide the totals, the dimensions of the largest items and your dates, then ask whatever remains unclear about matching a van to the load.
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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.