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 Run
If your business needs to get goods to customers on a particular day, the preparation happens before the van is booked. Start with a delivery schedule listing each drop in order, the recipient's name and contact number, and any time windows they have specified. Note the size and quantity of every item going out, and flag anything fragile or unusually shaped so the team can consider it when suggesting a vehicle. Check the access arrangements at each address, including whether someone will be there to receive the goods, since those details belong in your plan rather than being discovered on the day. When you contact the team about hire dates, ask what happens if the run overruns and whether the booking can be extended. A complete delivery sheet is the foundation of a sensible enquiry.
Listing Boxed Belongings for a Move
When a house move involves mostly boxed items, an inventory is the most useful thing you can prepare. Go from room to room and note each box with a brief description and a number, which helps you track what has gone where and spot anything missing. Record the approximate dimensions of the largest boxes and count the total, since the overall volume shapes the conversation about van size. Set aside a separate list for items that are not boxed, such as lamps, pictures or loose bedding, and note anything you plan to leave behind. Decide your hire dates once the inventory is finished, and ask the team how the list maps onto the van options available for those days. Any questions about access at the new address can go to the contact there.
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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.