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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Planning a Business Delivery
If a delivery to a customer is on your schedule, a few notes made in advance can shape the enquiry. Write down the hire dates and the delivery address, then record the access arrangements at the receiving end, including any gates, time windows or parking arrangements the recipient has described. List the goods you expect to carry, with their approximate sizes and whether any item needs a dropside or a crew van rather than a standard Transit. Keep the recipient's name and phone number with your notes, since the team may ask how the handover will work. You can also ask which vehicles are available for your dates and whether a Luton or a small van better matches the load you have described.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Maintaining a written inventory of everything in the van can make both the booking and the day itself more straightforward. Record each item, its approximate dimensions and its destination if you are making several stops, and note any fragile pieces that deserve a mention when you speak to the team. Count the boxes, list the furniture and flag anything that can be dismantled before the move. Alongside the inventory, keep the access arrangements for each address and the hire dates close at hand. If the list grows during packing, update it before you confirm the booking, and ask the team whether the vehicle you discussed still suits the revised load or whether a different option from the available range would be worth considering.
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Things to check 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.