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 delivery is on the cards, the paperwork starts well before the van is booked. Begin with a manifest: what is going out, how many of each item and the approximate size of every parcel or pallet. Next, confirm the recipient's details, including a named contact, phone number and any delivery window they expect. Some businesses ask for a purchase order reference; others need a gate pass or a signature on arrival, so those requirements belong on your notes. If the consignment includes mixed sizes, record the largest dimensions separately, since that single figure often informs the vehicle group you ask about. Finally, note the drop-off addresses and any collection points for returns, then share the whole plan with anyone covering the job on the day.
Planning the Unloading Order
If the drop involves several stops, planning the sequence in advance saves confusion. Write down each address in the order you intend to visit, alongside the items destined for that stop and a contact name there. Note any time windows the recipients have given, plus whether they expect a phone call on approach. If certain goods are fragile or need keeping separate, mark them on the list rather than relying on memory. It also helps to note which pieces are awkwardly shaped, such as rolled carpet or a flat-packed wardrobe box, because those details matter when you discuss the job with the hire team. Where a recipient has loading-bay hours or restricted access, that is a question for them to answer directly; keep their replies alongside your manifest so the schedule stays workable if one stop shifts.
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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.