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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Call
Write down what you are moving before anything else. Start with a room-by-room count of boxes, then note the furniture: a two-seat sofa, a double mattress, a wardrobe, or whatever applies. Measure the largest pieces and record whether legs come off or doors detach, since this affects how you describe the job. Group items by fragility and note any that need particular care in transit. If boxes vary in size, say so; ten small cartons and ten large ones are different loads. Add your hire dates and the access arrangements at each address, such as parking limits or stairs. This written list gives the team something concrete to match against a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Preparing a Business Delivery
If the hire is for a business delivery, which details should you have ready? Begin with the recipient: a contact name, phone number and full delivery address, plus any reference they expect on the paperwork. Note the opening hours and whether there is a preferred delivery window. List the goods themselves, including quantities, package dimensions and any handling notes the recipient has given you, such as where items should be left or who signs for them. Ask the destination contact directly about access, since they know their own site. Confirm your hire dates and the access arrangements at your collection point, then pass the whole set of details to the team when requesting a quote, so any open questions can be raised early.
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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.