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.
Preparing a Business Delivery
If a customer has ordered goods from your business, it is worth writing down the delivery details before requesting a van. Start with the proposed date and any window the recipient has asked for, then list every item going on the van along with its dimensions and approximate quantity. Note whether the consignment is a single parcel or several pieces, since that shapes the questions you ask. Record the recipient's name, phone number and any preferred contact method, plus whether they expect to meet the driver at a particular entrance. You might also ask whether parking or unloading space is limited at the destination, directing that question to the site contact. Keeping this information in one place makes the quote request clearer.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
Suppose you have agreed to collect furniture or equipment from a private seller. Before booking, confirm the collection date and the time slot the seller can manage, and ask whether they will be available on the phone that day. Measure each item, noting height, width and depth, and count anything that comes apart, such as a bed frame with separate slats or a wardrobe in two halves. If the seller still has the original listing, the dimensions there can be checked against your own measurements. Decide where the goods are heading afterwards and who will receive them, adding a contact name and number for that end of the trip too. Any details still unknown, such as whether legs detach, can be raised when you contact the team.
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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.