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.
Preparing a Business Delivery
Suppose a customer has ordered goods that need reaching them on a set day; the first step is to write down what is going out. List every item with its dimensions and quantity, and note whether any pieces are awkwardly shaped or come apart for transit. Add the delivery address, the recipient's name and a phone number where they can be reached on the day. If they have given a time window or particular entrance instructions, record those words exactly as they were given. With this information, the team can discuss matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, subject to what is available. Any questions about the site itself, such as gate widths or parking, are for the recipient to answer, so it helps to ask them early.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
If a private purchase needs collecting, a few notes taken before you enquire can clarify the whole arrangement. Ask the seller for the size of each item, including height, and confirm whether anything dismantles into components that could travel separately. Write the collection address, the agreed day and time window, and a contact number for the seller in case plans shift. If they have said the goods are on a first floor or in a garage, note that too, since it forms part of the access arrangements you pass to the team. Keeping the hire dates, including any spare day you might want, on the same list means your quote request covers everything the team needs to respond properly.
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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.