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.
Planning the unloading order
If the van will be emptied at more than one stop, write the drop sequence down before the hire date. List each address in the order you intend to visit, note which items belong at each one, and record the name and phone number of the person receiving goods or furniture at every stop. Where a house move is involved, it helps to label rooms on your list so you can see at a glance what belongs where, without describing how anything should be arranged once it leaves the van. Check whether any stop has restricted hours or needs a call ahead, and note that alongside the address. Share the sequence and the access arrangements with the team when you ask for a quote, since they can then judge whether your hire dates and chosen van group fit the plan you have written out.
Preparing a business delivery
For a commercial delivery, gather the paperwork together before contacting the team. Note the quantity of each item in the order, any reference or order numbers, and the delivery address with full contact details for the recipient, including a phone number that works during the day. Decide whether the goods must reach the customer within a set window or whether the timing is flexible, and record that window in your notes. If several deliveries sit within the same hire period, list them in order with their expected durations. Ask the team whether the van you have in mind is available across the dates, and confirm the access arrangements at each end so they can match the job to the right vehicle. Any questions about parking or site rules at the destination belong with the recipient, so it is worth asking them directly.
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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.