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.
Writing down your boxed belongings
Before anything else, put together a written inventory of the boxes you plan to move. Go room by room and note how many boxes come from each, along with their approximate sizes and any that contain fragile contents you want to keep track of. If some boxes are unusually large or heavy, record their dimensions and an estimated weight so the team has real figures to work with rather than a vague description. It can also help to label which items are needed first at the other end, in case you decide to spread the move across more than one trip. When you ask about a van, share the full inventory, the dates you have in mind and the access arrangements at both addresses, then raise any remaining questions before booking.
Preparing a business delivery
For a delivery job, the details worth writing down start with the recipient. Record a named contact at the destination, a phone number and any reference they have given you, so you can confirm timing directly with them if plans shift. Note the agreed delivery window, any paperwork that must be handed over and whether a signature or code is expected. List the goods themselves, including quantities and the dimensions of any oversized pieces, and flag anything that requires particular handling arrangements at the far end. If the delivery address has its own access rules, those questions belong with the recipient rather than the hire team. When requesting a quote, set out the dates, the load description and the contact arrangements, and ask anything still unresolved so the booking reflects the job accurately.
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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.