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.
Getting a delivery run ready
If the van is for business deliveries, sketching the day in advance keeps it manageable. Write out your drop-offs in the order you intend to complete them, noting any time windows the recipients have given you. Where possible, group deliveries that suit a single route, and flag the ones with restricted access or specific unloading arrangements. Contact each recipient the day before to check that someone will be there to receive the goods, and ask how they want items handed over. This is also the moment to raise anything unusual about the load, such as long or heavy pieces, when you speak to the team about the vehicle. A clear run list turns a busy delivery day into a sequence of straightforward stops.
Moving boxes and household goods
When the job is shifting boxed belongings, the preparation mostly happens before the van arrives. Gather sturdy boxes rather than overstuffed bags, and fill them to a weight one person can manage. Label each box on more than one side so the contents are visible however it sits in the load. Work out roughly how many boxes you have, since this gives the team a useful sense of scale when suggesting a vehicle. Keep a separate box for essentials you will want first at the new address. Telling whoever is at the destination when to expect you, and asking about access there, means both ends of the move are ready when you are.
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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.