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.
Writing Down Your Schedule and Hire Dates
Start by writing down the full span of the job, from the moment you want the van to the moment it goes back. If packing will take a full evening, or the collection address only opens at certain hours, those details belong on the same page as the hire dates. Note each address involved, the contact name and number at every one, and the list of items you expect to move. Add any time constraints you already know about, such as a slot booked at a storage facility or a deadline set by a customer. When you ask for a quote, present the whole schedule so the team can see whether the dates you have chosen leave room for every stage of the work.
Preparing the Details for a Business Delivery
For a delivery to a customer, the recipient's details deserve as much attention as the goods themselves. Record the delivery address, the name and direct number of the person receiving the items, and any reference they use for the order. Confirm the window they can accept a van and note it alongside your own schedule. If the items are boxed, list the number of boxes and the dimensions of the largest, so the whole picture is in one place. Ask the recipient about access at their end, including parking arrangements or restrictions they know of, and write down what they say. Passing these details and any remaining questions to the team with your enquiry keeps the booking tied to the real 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.