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 Enquiry
If a customer has ordered goods that need dropping off, start by writing down what is going out. List each item with its rough dimensions and the quantity involved, since a dozen boxes of one size is a different request from a single pallet. Note the delivery address, any reference number the recipient expects and the person who will receive the goods on arrival. Where the customer has specified a time window, record it exactly as given. If several drops are planned for the same day, list them in the order you expect to make them, with contact details for each site. Having this information to hand when you enquire allows the team to talk through which van suits the load and the schedule, and to flag anything that needs clarifying before the hire is arranged.
Recording an Order for the Day
Once the van is booked, it helps to plan how the day will run on paper. Write out each stop in sequence, with the address, the name of the person to call on arrival and any notes about opening times you have been given. Keep a separate note of which items belong to which recipient so nothing is confused between stops. Note the dimensions of the largest piece and any items that cannot be tilted or dismantled, as this is worth mentioning when the van is confirmed. Where a recipient has asked for a call beforehand, add their number to the list. These notes do not need to be complicated; a simple written plan keeps the day organised and gives you something to check against at every stop.
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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.