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 business delivery ready
If a delivery is on the schedule, a short run-through the day before helps everything run to plan. List what is going out, confirm the drop-off address with the recipient and check who will be there to receive it. Where the goods are going to a customer or another business, ask them about access, parking arrangements and any preferred delivery window, as they know the site best. Grouping orders by destination can cut out repeat trips if several drop-offs sit close together. When you enquire, describe the load and the route so the team can suggest a van that matches the day's work.
Moving boxed belongings with a van
Boxed items move quickly when a few basics are sorted in advance. Pack into sturdy, similar-sized boxes and label each one with the room it belongs to, which makes unloading straightforward at the other end. Keep a box of essentials separate so it comes off the van last and goes straight to where you need it. Tell whoever is receiving the boxes about access at the destination, including any steps or narrow passages, since they can check those details directly. Giving the team a description of how many boxes you have and the dates involved helps them pair the job with a suitable van where one is available.
Explore other van hire areas
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.