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 Delivery Ready
Suppose a customer in another part of town is waiting on an order from your workshop. Before you request a van, gather the delivery address, the name and number of the person receiving the goods, and any time window they have agreed. Write down what is going out: the number of boxes, crates or pallets, and the dimensions of the largest items. If the recipient has loading-bay or access restrictions, record those details so you can pass them on when asking for a quote. Decide whether the delivery must happen on a specific date or whether there is flexibility, and note whether anything needs returning after drop-off. Questions about which van size suits the consignment can be raised with the team alongside your dates.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory is worth preparing whether the job is a single collection or a full day of drops. List each item with a short description, its approximate dimensions and, if relevant, the address it belongs to. Photographing awkward pieces before they leave can help if a dispute arises later. Note which items are fragile and which recipient is expecting each one, including phone numbers so you can confirm arrival times on the day. If some goods are still unconfirmed, flag them separately rather than guessing. When you contact the team for a quote, this list lets you state exactly what you need to carry and the access arrangements at each stop, which keeps the conversation about vehicle choice straightforward and based on facts rather than estimates.
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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.