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.
Picking a suitable van
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 a Delivery for a Customer
If the job involves delivering goods to a customer, the details you gather beforehand often determine how smoothly the day runs. Start with the delivery date and the window the customer has agreed, noting whether mornings or afternoons matter. List each item going out, with approximate dimensions and whether anything is boxed, palletised or loose. Ask the customer at the receiving end about access, parking and any time restrictions, since they know their own site best, and keep their contact number to hand. Record who will sign for the goods and whether a return collection of packaging is expected. When you contact the team for a quote, share the dates, the load description and what the customer has said about access so the right van can be matched to the run.
Shifting Boxes Into Storage
Picture a weekend spent moving boxed items into a storage unit. Before the hire is arranged, count every box and note the sizes, separating standard cartons from anything tall or wide. Write down the date you have in mind and a backup date in case the storage facility is busy. Check the unit's opening hours and ask the facility about vehicle access on their premises, as they manage the site themselves. If a friend is helping on the day, note their availability so the hire window covers the whole job rather than part of it. Keep the storage unit number and any gate codes with your booking notes. Sharing the box count, dates and access details with the team helps them suggest a suitable small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
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Last checks before booking
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.