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 delivery is on the schedule, start by writing down what is going out and where it is headed. Record each item's dimensions, the quantity involved and any packaging that affects how the goods are described. Note the recipient's name, phone number and preferred delivery window, since a conversation at the door can move things along more smoothly than an unexpected arrival. Where the delivery address belongs to another business, ask that contact about opening hours, loading areas and any paperwork they expect with the consignment. Check whether the goods are needed by a specific date, and pass those details to the hire team when you ask about a small van, Transit or another option.
Organising a Household Move
For a move between homes, an inventory written in advance gives you something solid to work from. Walk through each room and list the furniture, boxes and bags, noting approximate sizes for the larger pieces and anything awkward such as mirrors or lamps. Decide what is definitely travelling and what might be sold or left behind, then count the results. Ask yourself whether the whole move fits into one hire period or whether dates might stretch across two. Note the access at both ends, including parking and any steps, and raise these with the hire team so they can talk you through the Luton, dropside and crew van options against the list you have drawn up.
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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.