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.
Planning Your Unloading Order in Advance
If you will be dropping items off at more than one address, it helps to write out the sequence before the hire begins. Start by listing each stop, who will receive goods there, and which numbered boxes or pieces belong to that stop. Note down the approximate dimensions and quantities of the largest items, since these details are useful when the team matches your load to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. You might also record any time windows each recipient has given and a phone number for each contact. If some drops remain uncertain, mention them when requesting a quote so the team can flag any open questions about dates or vehicle suitability.
Preparing a Business Delivery Run
Suppose your business has several customer orders going out in a single day. Before booking, gather the delivery addresses, preferred time slots and a named contact for each recipient, plus a brief description of every consignment, including item counts and any awkward dimensions. It is worth deciding whether you want one longer hire period or a shorter window, and whether any returns or collections need to be worked into the same schedule. Keep a copy of the order references handy so nothing gets mixed up between stops. When you ask for a quote, you could confirm the hire dates, ask which van options are available for your load, and raise any questions about access arrangements at the delivery points.
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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.