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.
Recording what goes where
If your move involves items destined for different rooms or addresses, a written list prepared in advance keeps the day orderly. Note each item briefly, its approximate dimensions, and the room or property it belongs to, then mark anything that needs particular care or attention at the other end. Where a sofa, wardrobe or appliance is involved, measure its height, width and depth and keep those figures with your notes so you can pass them on when discussing the job. If some items are heading to storage and others to a new home, separate the two lists clearly. You might also record a contact name and number for anyone receiving goods, plus any questions you still have about access at each stop, ready for your quote request.
Getting a business delivery organised
Suppose a delivery job lands on your desk with little notice; the details you gather first will shape the hire. Start with the dates and, if the work repeats, whether a single day or a rolling arrangement is more likely. List the goods involved, their sizes and typical quantities per run, so the team can consider whether a small van, Transit or crew van fits the brief. Note the delivery addresses, the opening hours or time windows at each, and a named recipient with a phone number for every drop. If parking or access at any destination is uncertain, that question sits with the site contact rather than the hire team. Recording these points before requesting a price leaves fewer loose ends later.
Explore other van hire areas
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.