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.
Coordinating Helpers on the Day
Who is going to lend a hand, and when are they free? Settling this early helps you frame the whole hire. List the people who will assist with your move or delivery, their arrival times and a contact number for each, then build the schedule around the window they can offer. If helpers are only available for part of the day, note where the work would pause and who holds keys to the property or storage unit involved. Record the items being carried and their approximate dimensions, plus the access arrangements at both ends, and the hire dates that cover the full plan. When you request a quote, mention whether a crew van might be needed so helpers can travel with the load.
Preparing a Business Delivery
For trade work and business deliveries, the information you gather before booking tends to centre on the recipient. Write down the delivery address, a named contact and their telephone number, along with the hours the site can accept goods. List each item with its dimensions and note whether any piece requires particular handling at the destination, as the site contact will need to know. If several addresses are involved, sequence them and record any time windows attached to each. Confirm the hire dates and consider whether the job might spill over an extra day. Ask the team about matching the load to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available, and put site access questions to the contact at the receiving end.
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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.
















