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.
Setting aside time for packing
Write down your intended schedule first, including the collection time and the point at which you want everything ready to go. From there, work backwards and estimate how long packing will realistically take, noting whether items are already boxed or still in daily use. If furniture needs dismantling, record which pieces and whether you have the tools and instructions to hand. Mark any tasks that depend on other people, such as a friend collecting keys or a seller releasing goods, and add their contact numbers to the same page. Decide whether the packing can finish the evening before or must happen on the day itself, and check whether that still fits within the hire hours you planned. If the numbers feel tight, adjusting the dates is usually simpler before a quote is prepared.
Preparing a business delivery
For a delivery job, the details worth recording begin with the goods themselves: what is being sent, how many of each item, and the dimensions of anything bulky or boxed. Note the recipient's full name, direct phone number and any reference they expect to see on the paperwork, since these details smooth the handover. Confirm the delivery address, including any specific entrance, unit number or loading area the site uses, and record the time window the recipient prefers. If several drops are planned, list them in the order you intend to complete them and note any cutoff times attached to each. Keep this information alongside the hire dates and access notes, and you will have a clear brief ready when discussing vehicle options.
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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.