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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Listing your boxed belongings before the move
Begin with a written inventory of what you are moving. Count the boxes, note their approximate sizes, and list any furniture or awkward items with their measurements. Record which items are fragile or need particular care, and decide which room each box belongs to at the far end, labelling your notes accordingly. If some things are staying behind or going to storage, mark those separately. When you ask for a quote, include the hire dates, the addresses involved and any access notes you already have. Questions worth raising include anything unclear about what you need to carry, so the team can discuss the options described above using your recorded figures rather than estimates or guesses about the load.
Preparing the details for a business delivery
A business delivery tends to run more smoothly when the paperwork is ready in advance. Write down each recipient's name, address and phone number, and note any reference numbers or purchase orders that should accompany the goods. Record the delivery windows each site expects, and note whether someone must sign for items on arrival. If the consignment includes several drops, list them in the order you plan to make them and keep contact details to hand in case a recipient is unavailable. When requesting the van, mention the hire dates, what you are carrying and the access arrangements at each stop. Ask the team any open questions at this point, such as which vehicle suits a mixed load, so the arrangement matches the day's schedule.
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Last checks before booking
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.