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.
Getting a business delivery ready
If the van is for a commercial delivery, prepare the paperwork and the drop-off details before you request the vehicle. List the goods in the order they will be delivered, note any time windows the recipient has given you, and record contact numbers for each stop. Where a customer expects goods at a particular hour, that commitment should shape your hire dates rather than the other way round. Think about whether the driver will need help unloading at any stop, and arrange it in advance with the people receiving the goods. If any delivery address has particular access arrangements, such as a shared yard or a booked loading slot, add these to your notes. Sharing this outline with the team helps them discuss vehicle options against your actual delivery schedule.
Measuring the bulky pieces
Before settling on a vehicle, take a tape measure to the largest items in the load. Record the height, width and depth of each awkward piece, and note any parts that stick out, such as handles, feet or frames. Compare these figures with the spaces the items must pass through at both the collection point and the destination, including door frames and corridors. If a recipient is accepting delivery at the far end, ask them to check their own entrances and pass the measurements back to you, since they know their premises best. Where something looks borderline, say so when you enquire rather than hoping for the best, as the team can talk through which vehicle groups are worth considering. Written measurements beat visual estimates every time.
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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.