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.
If you have a business delivery
Suppose a regular customer has ordered several items and asked for delivery on a specific morning. Start by writing down each item, its dimensions and its approximate weight, since the team will ask what you need to carry before matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Note the delivery address, any recipient contact name and phone number, and the window in which someone will be there to receive the goods. If there are multiple stops on one route, list them in the order you expect to drive them and record what goes to each. Questions worth settling early include whether anything is fragile, whether the recipient needs warning of arrival, and how long the hire needs to run.
What to note before moving boxes
A move made up entirely of boxes still benefits from a written plan. Count the boxes, record an approximate size for each batch, and set aside a description of any awkwardly shaped pieces that are not boxed. Note the collection address and the destination, along with a contact at each end who can confirm access arrangements on the day. If some boxes are destined for storage rather than the new address, mark which is which before you contact the team. Think about the hire dates too, including whether an extra day might be needed if unpacking runs longer than expected. A precise list of quantities, sizes and addresses gives the team what they need when matching the job to a van.
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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.