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
Picture a delivery that must reach a customer by a particular afternoon. To get the booking right, start by recording what is going out: the type of goods, the number of items and their approximate sizes. Note the delivery address and, if someone will be there to receive it, their name and contact number. Check whether the customer has specified a time window and add that to your notes. If the goods are fragile or unusual in shape, measure the longest sides and write the figures down rather than guessing. When you contact the team, this preparation allows you to describe the job fully and ask any questions you still have about matching the load to a suitable van.
Moving Boxed Belongings
When a house move or a storage run involves boxes, an accurate count matters more than most people expect. Before enquiring, go through each room and list what will be packed, then total the boxes once they are sealed. Note the sizes you are using, since a mix of small, medium and large boxes adds up differently, and record any especially heavy or awkward ones separately. If some boxes are destined for different addresses, mark them on your list. You might also photograph the stack once packed, purely for your own reference. Sharing the box count and sizes with the team when you ask about a van gives them a clearer picture of the job than a rough estimate ever could.
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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.