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.
Writing Down the Load Details First
Before anything else, it is worth writing a clear list of everything that needs to travel in the van. Start with an inventory: each item's name, a rough count, and the dimensions where you can take them, particularly for furniture such as wardrobes, sofas or mattresses where length, width and height all matter. Note whether anything comes apart, such as table legs or bed frames, and whether you have the tools to do so. Record fragile pieces separately and any items that need to stay upright. If the job is a storage run or a collection from a shop, add the collection reference and the phone number for whoever is handing the goods over. This written list then becomes the basis for the conversation about which van suits the job.
Preparing a Delivery With a Recipient
If the van is being used for a business delivery, the recipient's details deserve the same care as the goods themselves. Write down the delivery address, a named contact, a direct phone number and any agreed time window, since these are the pieces that keep a delivery on track if plans change. Check whether the site has particular access arrangements, such as a service entrance or restricted hours, and record what the recipient tells you rather than what you assume. Note whether someone must sign for the goods and whether a return collection might be needed later. When you contact the team for a quote, you can ask how the hire window would work around the delivery slot and what to do if the recipient is unavailable on the day.
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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.