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.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
If you have agreed to collect an item from a seller, a few details written down in advance can keep the whole arrangement clear. Confirm the collection date and the window in which the seller will be available, then note their phone number in case timings shift on the day. Ask whether the item comes apart, what its measurements are and whether any packaging needs disposing of once it is in the van. If the seller expects the item to be taken away immediately, that is worth recording too. When you contact the team for a quote, these notes can be passed on alongside the hire dates, the load description and the access arrangements, so any open questions surface before the booking is settled.
Preparing a Business Delivery
Should your delivery involve a customer or a trading address, gathering the recipient's information early tends to prevent hold-ups later. Record the contact name, a direct phone number and any reference that ties the goods to the order, then check whether someone must sign for the items and whether there is a preferred time for arrival. Where the delivery spans several stops, listing each address with its own contact details keeps the sequence straightforward to follow. Questions about parking, gates or access at the destination belong with the recipient, so it can be worth asking them directly. Once the schedule is settled, the dates, load details and access arrangements can go to the team when you request a quote.
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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.