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.
Noting Down Your Load and Dates
If a house move or a storage run is on the horizon, a written list of what you plan to carry gives you a clear starting point. Jot down each item with its approximate dimensions, so a wardrobe is recorded by its height, width and depth rather than simply described as large. Count the boxes, flag awkward shapes such as rolled carpets or a dismantled bed frame, and note which pieces are destined for which address if the job involves more than one drop-off. Keep the contact name and number for each recipient, together with any time window they have given. When you request a quote, this record lets the team see the overall size of the load and suggest a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available, matching your dates and access arrangements.
Preparing a Business Delivery Run
For a commercial delivery, the details worth gathering before you book go beyond the goods themselves. Note each delivery address, the recipient's name and direct phone number, and any reference they expect you to quote on arrival. Record the hire dates, the access arrangements at every stop, and any time windows the customers have set, since these shape how the day is organised. If some deliveries are scheduled and others are ad hoc, separate the two on paper so the plan stays clear. Questions about whether a business has a loading bay or restricted entry should be directed to that business, not assumed. Sharing the full picture with the team when you ask for a quote helps them match the job to the right van type where available.
Explore other van hire areas
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.