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 job is on the cards, the groundwork starts with a clear list of what is going out. Record each item, its dimensions and the quantity, then note the delivery address and a named recipient with a phone number for every stop. Set the hire dates and the hours you expect the round to take, and write down the access arrangements at each end, including any time windows the customer has set. Count how many people will travel in the van, since that may point towards a crew van. Where several drops are scheduled, sketch the order and note any items bound for different addresses. Questions about matching the load to a vehicle can go to the team before booking.
Coordinating Helpers
Suppose friends or colleagues have offered to assist with the job. Before the day arrives, confirm who is coming, when each person can start and how you will contact them if timings move. Give them a sense of the task by sharing your list of items and their sizes, so everyone knows what to expect. Agree where they should meet you, whether at the pickup address or the delivery point, and note the contact details of anyone receiving goods. Record the hire dates and any reserve hours in case the work runs longer than planned. If the helpers need space in the van for the journey, mention the passenger count when discussing vehicle options with the team, who can suggest what suits the job.
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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.