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.
Preparing a Business Delivery
If a commercial customer is waiting on goods, get the details in order before the hire begins. Write down the delivery address, the name of the person receiving the items and a direct phone number for them, since the recipient often knows more about access than anyone else. Ask that contact about loading bay arrangements, opening hours and any reference number the site expects. Prepare a simple manifest of what is going out: item names, quantities and any order numbers. Confirm the hire dates that align with the customer's expected delivery window, and note whether the goods need to arrive in one run or can follow a schedule. When you request a quote, pass on the item list and access notes so the team can suggest which van size fits the consignment.
Measuring Bulky Items
Large pieces cause the most uncertainty, so take a tape measure to them before enquiring. Record the height, width and depth of each big item, such as wardrobes, sofas, workbenches or palletised stock, and note whether anything comes apart, along with the dimensions of the separated parts. If an item is an awkward shape, describe it in your own words rather than relying on a category. Photographs can help you remember what you measured. Check the dimensions of doorways, corridors and lifts at both ends of the journey, and keep those numbers separate from the item measurements so nothing gets confused. When you contact the team for a quote, include the full list of dimensions and access notes; that information lets them discuss which vehicle from the available range suits the load.
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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.