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.
Coordinating helpers for the day
How many people will actually be available on hire day? Answering that early shapes the rest of your planning. Make a list of who has confirmed, their arrival times, and a mobile number for each, then note which tasks each person has agreed to cover, such as meeting the van at the delivery point or waiting at the destination. If a helper drops out, decide in advance who you will call and keep that number with your booking notes. Where children or pets are involved, record who will look after them during the working hours. Share the hire dates and access arrangements with everyone once confirmed. When you ask the team for a quote, you can also check whether your helper numbers raise any questions about the vehicle option you have in mind.
Preparing a business delivery
For a delivery to a customer or another site, the paperwork often matters as much as the van. Start with the recipient's name, direct phone number and the full delivery address, then note any reference numbers, purchase orders or paperwork that must travel with the goods. Record the dimensions and quantities of each item, the agreed delivery window, and who signs for the consignment at the far end. If the site has particular receiving hours or a named person who handles deliveries, add those details and confirm them with the site contact rather than assuming. You can then pass the hire dates and access arrangements to the team when requesting a small van, Transit or another option. Keeping this information on one sheet makes the enquiry easier to answer.
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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.