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 Run
If a delivery job is on the horizon, the paperwork you assemble beforehand often determines how smoothly the day runs. Begin with a schedule: the date, the first collection time and each drop-off window in order. For every delivery, write down the recipient's name, a direct phone number and any order reference they expect to be quoted. List the goods for each address, with quantities and package sizes where you know them, so the whole load is accounted for. Note any time-sensitive items or goods that must stay upright, purely as information for your own records. Check the access arrangements at each stop, such as where the vehicle can wait, and record what the site contact tells you. These notes give you concrete answers for the quote request.
Recording the Order of Your Drops
When a load is going to several places, the sequence you plan deserves as much attention as the items themselves. Write out the drop order you have in mind, with an estimated time against each stop, and note which packages belong to which recipient. Mark any boxes that need to come off at the first stop so they are identifiable on your list, and label fragile or urgent items clearly in your notes. Include a contact number for each destination in case a recipient is unavailable or a timing changes. If the route has a fixed constraint, such as a shop that closes early, note it beside that entry. Keep the list with you on the day. Any open questions about timing can be raised when arranging the hire.
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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.