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.
Preparing a Business Delivery
When a commercial delivery is on the cards, having the paperwork ready can speed up your enquiry. List every item due to go out, with quantities and dimensions where you know them, and note whether anything is fragile or unusual in shape. Record the delivery address and a named contact there, along with their phone number, so you can confirm arrival arrangements directly with them. Ask the recipient about access, opening hours and any booking-in procedure they operate, and write the answers down. Decide which dates you need the van for and whether the same run repeats weekly or monthly. When you ask for a quote, share the load description, dates and access notes, and raise any questions about which vehicle might suit the volume.
Planning the Order of Deliveries
If several drops are scheduled in one trip, mapping out the sequence beforehand can help you describe the job clearly. Write each stop in the order you intend to make it, noting the address, contact name and phone number for every recipient. Estimate how long each drop-off might take, based on what the recipient tells you about their process, and note any time windows they impose. Record which items belong at which stop so nothing gets mixed up, and keep a copy of that list with you on the day. Questions you might ask when requesting a quote include how the number of stops affects the hire period, and what information about each address is useful for the team to know.
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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.