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.
Getting a Business Delivery Organised
If your firm needs to move goods to a customer, the paperwork you prepare beforehand often matters as much as the van itself. Start by listing every item in the consignment, with dimensions and quantities for each, so the team can consider which vehicle body suits the load. Record the delivery address, the name of the person receiving the goods and a phone number for them, since questions about access or timing are best answered by that contact rather than left open. Note the date you have promised delivery and any window the customer has specified. When you request a quote, include all of this and ask which details still need confirming before the hire can go ahead.
Recording Dimensions of Awkward Loads
Bulky or irregular items raise questions that a simple item count cannot answer, so begin with a measuring tape and a notebook. Measure each large piece for height, width and depth, and write down whether anything sticks out, such as a sofa arm or a wardrobe cornice. If furniture can be separated into sections, record the size of the largest single part rather than the whole, and note whether doors, drawers or shelves come off. Where a load includes mixed items, keep a running tally of boxes and bags alongside the big pieces. Send the full set of figures with your enquiry, then ask the team how the numbers compare with the vans they offer and what remains undecided about your dates.
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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.