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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Setting Aside Time for Packing Days
Begin by writing down every stage of your move or delivery that happens before the van is loaded. That list might include dismantling furniture, wrapping fragile pieces, boxing loose items, labelling rooms and setting aside anything travelling separately. Estimate how long each stage could take, then consider whether your hire dates allow for that work or whether the van would arrive before the packing is finished. If you are working around a completion date, a tenancy end or a storage unit deadline, note those fixed points first and build the rest of the schedule around them. It can be worth asking whether an extra day of hire would remove the pressure of doing everything in one stretch, and whether any helpers you have lined up are free on the same dates you are considering.
Preparing a Business Delivery Run
For commercial work, the details worth recording start with the delivery address, the recipient's name and a direct phone number for whoever will accept the goods. Note the opening hours of each drop-off point, any reference or purchase order numbers that should accompany the items, and whether a signature or photographic proof is expected. If several deliveries are planned in one run, list them in the order you intend to complete them and note the rough size of each consignment. Where a customer has specified a time window, write that down alongside their contact details so you can call ahead if circumstances change. Questions to raise when enquiring include whether the hire period can cover an early start, and what to do if a delivery runs over into the following day.
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Things to check 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.