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.
Preparing a business delivery
If the van is for a commercial delivery, start by writing down the consignment: what is travelling, roughly how much of it there is, and where it is going. Note the delivery windows you have promised customers, since the vehicle needs to cover the whole round within your working day. Share the route outline and the volume of stock when you enquire, as this helps the team discuss the right kind of van for repeat runs. Mention whether you need the van for a single day or on a recurring basis, and flag any access constraints at the delivery addresses that could affect the vehicle choice. The recipient at each stop can clarify parking and unloading arrangements on their side.
Organising a household move
For a house move, begin with a room-by-room list of what will travel and what will stay behind, then group the items by size. This gives you a realistic sense of the load and lets the team talk through which vehicle groups suit it. Set the moving date and any backup dates early, and note the access at both properties, including stairs, gates or narrow lanes. Ask the recipient or new occupier about anything that could affect arrival on the day, and pass relevant details on when you enquire. If friends are helping, brief them on the schedule so the loading and unloading run to plan. A settled list prevents the job from growing beyond the booking.
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.