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.
Preparing a Business Delivery Schedule
Imagine you have several customer orders ready to go out on the same day; a written schedule before you book can make the whole run easier to discuss. List each delivery address in the order you plan to visit, with a named recipient and direct phone number for every stop. Note any time windows the customers have requested and whether each site expects goods at a particular entrance or desk. Record the number of parcels or pallets per address and flag anything fragile or unusually shaped. If one customer has not yet confirmed where the items should go, chase that detail before the hire date so your list stays complete. When you contact the team for a quote, share the schedule alongside your load description, since the pattern of stops and total volume may influence whether a small van, Transit or crew van suits the work.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
If your load includes wardrobes, worktops, machinery or other oversized pieces, taking measurements beforehand turns guesswork into a clear brief. Use a tape measure to record each item's length, width and height at its widest points, including handles, feet or packaging that adds to the overall size. Note whether anything can be dismantled, and if so, what the dimensions become once it is taken apart. Photograph the items from a couple of angles so the team can see their general shape, and jot down the quantity of each. For collections from a shop or reclamation yard, ask the seller to confirm the figures themselves. Pass the full set of measurements over with your hire dates, and raise any questions about access or vehicle options while the quote is being prepared.
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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.