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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
The decision between a small van and something larger often comes down to numbers, so take a tape measure to each item before you contact the team. Record the height, width and depth of every piece you plan to move, whether that is a wardrobe, a mattress, a fridge or a stack of flat-pack boxes, and note anything that separates into parts. Count the total number of items and jot down any odd shapes, such as long curtain poles or rolled carpets. Ask yourself whether the list might grow before the hire date, and if so, say so when enquiring. Provide your dates and the access arrangements at both ends, plus a contact number, and the team will help match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Questions about whether a specific item fits should be raised directly with the team.
Preparing a Business Delivery
For a commercial delivery, the most useful preparation is often a single page listing everything the job involves. Start with the delivery date and any time window the customer has given, then add the recipient's full address, phone number and an alternative contact where possible. Itemise what is going out: quantities, dimensions of the largest pieces, and whether anything needs handling as a separate load. Note the access arrangements at the collection and delivery points, confirming details such as gate widths or restricted hours with the recipient rather than guessing. If a colleague is joining you, mention that a crew van may be relevant. Ask the team which vehicles they can offer on your dates and raise any remaining questions about the booking before you confirm, so both sides know what has been agreed.
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Last checks 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.