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.
Meeting a Seller for a Collection
If you have bought a sofa from a private seller, the moments before collection deserve a short checklist of their own. Message the seller to confirm the pickup address, the earliest time you could arrive, and a phone number that will be answered on the day. Ask for the item's measurements while you are at it, along with whether it comes apart, and write those figures next to the listing. Note whether anyone will be at the address at the agreed time and whether they can assist at that hour. If the address has particular access arrangements, such as a shared driveway, record them for your own reference. These details also give the hire team something concrete to work with when matching a van to the job.
Getting a Commercial Delivery Organised
A delivery to a trade customer works best when the paperwork travels with the plan. Before requesting the van, write out the consignment: the number of items, their dimensions if any are oversized, and the reference or order numbers the customer will want to quote. Confirm the delivery date and a time window directly with the recipient, and record the name and number of whoever will receive the goods, not just a general switchboard. Note the site's opening hours and any access instructions they provide. If your own stock or production schedule could move the date, say so when you enquire, and ask the team in Felling any remaining questions about van sizes and access arrangements so the plan is settled before the hire begins.
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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.