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.
Measuring bulky items
Before choosing a van, take a tape measure to your largest items and write the figures down. Wardrobes, sofas, chest freezers and flat-packed furniture all vary enormously, and a guess made in a living room rarely matches reality at the van door. Note the height of tall pieces as well as their length, since that often matters more than width. If an item can be dismantled, decide whether you will actually do that before the hire date or transport it whole. Sharing accurate measurements with the hire team means the conversation about vehicle size rests on real numbers, and the recipient at the other end can also be told what is coming.
Preparing a business delivery
For trade and delivery work, the practical starting point is a clear schedule of what needs to move and when. List the items or stock going out, the addresses involved, and whether any recipient has specified a time window for arrival. Where a delivery involves a shop, site or private address, ask the contact there about access arrangements and who will receive the goods. Confirming these details in advance prevents wasted trips and keeps customers informed. It is also worth telling the hire team whether you need the van for a single day, a week or longer, as that shapes the arrangement they can put together for your business.
Explore other van hire areas
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.