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.
Measuring bulky items before you enquire
Before choosing a van, the most useful decision you can make is to measure everything you plan to move. Take the length, width and height of each large item, noting any protruding parts such as legs, handles or detachable shelves. Record whether wardrobes or sofas can be dismantled, and if so, what the dimensions become once taken apart. Count the total number of boxes and separate them from furniture on your list, since a mixed load is easier to describe accurately that way. When you contact the team, present these figures alongside your dates and ask which van size they would recommend for the load as described. You might also ask whether anything on your list raises questions about the job, which keeps the conversation focused on facts rather than estimates.
Preparing details for a business delivery
If the hire is for a commercial delivery, gathering the right information in advance will shape your enquiry. Decide the delivery date and any time window the recipient expects, then note the full address and a contact name and phone number for someone at the destination. Record what is being delivered, including quantities and the size of the largest items, so the team can consider the load alongside your preferred van type. Think about access at the receiving end, such as gates, parking or loading areas, and be ready to describe those arrangements when you ask for a quote. Questions you might pose include which details the team needs confirmed before the booking, and whether the recipient should expect a call ahead of the delivery.
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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.