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 a collection with a seller
If you have agreed to collect furniture or appliances from a private seller, a few notes made in advance can make the enquiry much clearer. Start by asking the seller for the item's dimensions, whether it comes apart, and how many pieces there are in total. Record the collection address, the agreed time window, and a phone number for the person who will hand the item over, since plans sometimes shift on the day. Find out whether the item is already on the ground floor or needs to come down stairs, and whether the seller can help at your end if relevant. When you contact the team, share these details along with your hire dates and the access arrangements, and ask which van size they would suggest for the load described. Keeping the seller's details to hand means any follow-up questions can be answered quickly.
Preparing a business delivery
When a delivery is heading to a commercial customer, the details worth recording start with the recipient. Note the business name, the contact person who will accept the goods, and a direct phone number in case the arrival time needs adjusting. List what is being sent, the number of items, and any dimensions or handling notes the customer has provided, plus the delivery address and its opening hours. If the customer has specified a time slot or needs paperwork signed, add that to your notes so nothing is missed when you request a quote. Share the hire dates, the access arrangements at both ends, and the load description with the team, then ask whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job. Any open questions, such as whether the site has a loading bay, should go to the recipient directly, which keeps the booking accurate.
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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.