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 your helpers organised in advance
Who is going to be there on the day? Before you request a van, confirm which friends or colleagues can help and pin down their availability against your intended hire dates. Make a written list of every item to be moved, noting awkward dimensions such as a sofa's length or a wardrobe's height, along with a total bag or box count if you are packing loose goods. Pass this list to your helpers so they know what to expect, and note any access details at each address, such as parking restrictions or entry arrangements, since the team will ask about these. If a helper might drive the van themselves, mention that when you enquire. Ask how flexible the dates are if someone drops out, and record who is your single point of contact.
Preparing details for a business delivery
What does the recipient need to know beforehand? For commercial work, start by confirming the delivery address, the name and phone number of the person receiving the goods, and any time window they expect. List each consignment with its dimensions and quantity so the team can consider whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van fits the job where available. Note whether the site has particular access arrangements, such as gated entry or specific unloading hours, and record these alongside your hire dates. If several drops are planned, sketch the running order and note any reference numbers the customer requires on paperwork. When you ask for a quote, you can raise open questions such as whether multi-stop itineraries change anything, keeping the whole job documented from the outset.
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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.