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
For a business delivery, the paperwork usually comes before the van. Start by listing the goods, their approximate dimensions and the quantity of each, so you can describe the load precisely when enquiring. Record the delivery address and a named contact there, along with a phone number and any reference the recipient expects. Ask whether the site has particular receiving hours or a specific entrance, and note the answer rather than assuming it. If several drops are planned, list them in the order you intend to make them. With this information gathered, you can tell the team what you need to carry, the access arrangements and the hire dates, and they will help match the job to a suitable van where available.
Listing Items for a Household Move
A household move becomes far easier to plan once every item has a line on paper. Walk through each room and note the furniture, its approximate measurements and whether legs or doors come off, since that detail matters when choosing between van types. Count the boxes you have packed and estimate the rest, and record any white goods, lamps or garden tools separately. Ask your storage facility, if you are using one, for the unit number and any access times. Once you know what you need to carry, the hire dates and the arrangements at both ends, you can ask the team to match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
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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.