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
If the van is for a business delivery, start with a clear record of what is going out and to whom. List each consignment, the delivery address and the named recipient, then note any handling instructions the customer has given you, such as a preferred arrival window or a contact number for the site. Check with the receiving party how access works at their end, including where a vehicle can pull in and who will accept the goods, since these are questions for them rather than the hire company. Collating this information keeps the day organised and gives the driver a single reference. When you enquire, outline the delivery profile, and the team can discuss which van types suit the loads and what is available for your dates.
Measuring bulky items
Before settling on a van, measure the largest items you plan to move. Note the height, width and depth of each piece, and record whether anything can be dismantled, which may change the space it requires. Keep these figures with your job notes so they are easy to share, and compare them against the internal dimensions you discuss with the team rather than guessing by eye. If an item is going to a customer, ask them to confirm the dimensions of their entrance or delivery point so the whole journey is accounted for. Sending these measurements with your enquiry, along with your Danderhall dates and access details, allows the team to talk through the vehicle options that could accommodate the load.
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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.