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.
Organising a household move
Which rooms are you moving from first? Before requesting a van, walk through your home and list the furniture, boxes and awkward items you intend to take, noting the approximate dimensions of anything large such as wardrobes or sofas. Group the list by room so you can see the full scope of the job at a glance. Think about the dates you want the van, whether you need it for a single day or across a weekend, and any access arrangements at both ends, such as who to contact for keys. If items are going into storage, record what stays and what travels. When you ask the team for a quote, share the item list, measurements and hire dates so they can help match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Preparing a business delivery
What does your customer need to receive on the day? For trade or delivery work, start by listing each item going out, its rough size and the quantity involved, which helps you describe the job accurately when you make contact. Confirm the delivery address, the name and phone number of the person receiving the goods, and any time window they have given you. If several drops are planned, note the order you expect to make them and any reference numbers attached. Record the hire dates you have in mind, including whether the van is needed again the following morning. Questions worth asking the team include whether a crew van suits jobs where a colleague travels too, and what details they need alongside your item list to suggest the right vehicle.
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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.