Details to confirm before a truck or lorry quote
Describe the load by weight, dimensions and packing, whether palletised, loose or crated. Ask the recipient whether unloading will be by forklift, at a loading dock or by hand, and whether their site has height, length or weight limits for delivery vehicles. Provide driver licence details and say whether the hire is for business use, so the team can confirm driver and operator requirements with you before booking.
Picking a suitable truck
Choose the truck according to how the load will be handled. A box or Luton-style body usually suits goods that need protecting, a tail lift helps where there is little loading equipment, and dropsides can work well for materials needing open-side access. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range covers the Ford Luton 3.5 Tonne Box with Tail Lift, 3.5 Tonne Tipper Transit Truck, 3.5 Tonne Recovery Truck, 7.5 Tonne Box Truck With Tail Lift and 7.5 Tonne Curtain Side Truck. The quote stage confirms the exact make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position, so these vehicles serve as a guide to the type of hire available and not as a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Recording Access Dimensions and Site Limits
The first decision to make is which vehicle category fits the sites involved, so start by gathering measurements. Note the height clearance at the collection point and the delivery point, including gates, archways and any covered areas, along with width restrictions and turning space. Record weight limits shown on site signage or paperwork, and check with the site contact if you are unsure. If the delivery location has a booking system or specific entrance for large vehicles, write down the relevant details and reference numbers. When you speak to the team, compare these figures with the vehicle options on offer and ask directly about anything tight. These access questions belong with the site contact, so confirm them there rather than assuming. Full measurements let the team match your request accurately.
Passing Site Instructions to the Right People
Alongside dimensions, every site has its own way of working, and capturing that information early keeps the job organised. Note who the named contact is at each end, their phone number, and any preferred times for arrivals. Record instructions such as sign-in procedures, required identification, waiting areas and whether someone will meet the vehicle on arrival. If the site restricts certain hours or requires advance notice, write that down too. When you enquire, share these details with the team so the booking reflects them, and keep the site contacts informed of the confirmed schedule once it is settled. Ask the team what they need from you regarding licence and operator checks for the heavier vehicle categories. Clear, written instructions passed to the right people avoid confusion on the day.
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Last checks before booking
Before you confirm the hire, go through the essentials: vehicle availability, driver requirements, mileage, insurance, delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. With truck hire, the booking team should check the driver category, operator position, mileage terms, insurance, payload, body type and where the vehicle can be delivered or collected safely. It helps if your request includes the date, hire length, approximate route, delivery or pickup address, expected passengers or load, and any special requirements that might affect the suitability of the vehicle.