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 Details for a Business Delivery
If your business needs to send goods to a customer, a little preparation will help the hire team match a van to the job. Begin with a written list of what is going out: the number of items, their approximate dimensions and any packaging that adds to the size. Note the delivery address, the recipient's name and a phone number, since the person receiving the goods may need to be contacted on the day. Write down the hire dates and times, including any window the customer has specified, and record the access arrangements at both ends. You can then ask which of the available vans suits your load, whether a crew van is needed if a colleague is coming along, and how the price will be confirmed before you book.
Putting Together a House Move Checklist
A house move brings its own checklist, and much of it is information you can gather before contacting the hire team. Walk through each room and note the furniture you plan to take, recording lengths and heights for the larger pieces along with an estimate of how many boxes, bags and loose items there will be. Set your moving dates and, if there is any flexibility, note the alternative days as well. If friends are helping, list who is available and when, and keep the contact details for anyone at the other end, such as a landlord or letting agent. Questions to raise with the quote include whether a Luton or dropside would suit your list, and what access details the team needs from you.
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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.