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.
Listing what you plan to carry
If your move or delivery involves more than a handful of items, an inventory written down in advance can shape the whole enquiry. Work through each room, job or collection point and note every item you expect to transport, including quantities, approximate dimensions and anything unusually shaped. Where furniture can be dismantled, record that alongside the measurements, and mark anything that belongs to a recipient rather than yourself. This list lets the team see at a glance whether a small van, Luton or dropside matches the job, and it gives you a reference to check against at each end of the trip. Questions you might raise when asking for a quote include whether your dates are flexible and how many trips you anticipate.
Thinking through your day's sequence
Suppose you have several stops booked in one hire period. Before you contact the team, map out the order you intend to visit each address, the approximate time you expect to spend at each one, and who will be there to receive items. Note the contact details for every recipient, since they may need warning before you set off, and jot down any questions about access that only they can answer, such as where to park or which entrance to use. Sharing this sequence with the team when you enquire helps them understand the scope of the job and the hire duration you might need. Anything still undecided, such as a collection time that depends on a seller, is worth marking as provisional in your notes.
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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.