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 a customer is waiting on stock or materials, the details you gather beforehand determine how smoothly the delivery runs. Start with the basics: the delivery date, the recipient's name, a direct phone number, and the exact address including any unit or entrance references. Note the items being sent, their quantities, and any reference numbers that tie the delivery to an order. Ask the recipient about their receiving hours and whether paperwork needs signing on arrival, then record their answers. Where the destination has particular access arrangements, such as a service entrance or restricted vehicle access, capture those too. Bring this information, along with your hire dates, to the team when you enquire, so the vehicle options and the delivery plan can be discussed together.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Large or awkwardly shaped items deserve careful measuring before any booking conversation. Take a tape to each piece and record the greatest height, width and depth, including handles, feet and protruding parts, since those easily forgotten extras often decide whether an item fits a given plan. If something comes apart, measure the pieces separately and note which dimensions change once dismantled. Photographs can help you remember what each measurement refers to. Write the figures into a simple list, grouped by destination if the items are heading to different places, and note any access constraints at either end. Share the full list and your dates with the team when you request a quote, and ask which vehicle types they could match to the job.
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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.