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.
Building a Load Inventory Before You Enquire
Start with the information the customer should write down: a full inventory of everything due to travel. Go room by room or job by job and list each item, from large furniture to boxes of tools, marking anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. Beside every entry, note an approximate size and, for the biggest pieces, an actual measurement. Record the access arrangements at each address, including parking, gate widths and which floor items are coming from or going to. Add the hire dates you have in mind and a contact name and number for whoever receives goods at the destination. When you send this list with your enquiry, the team can discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van would be considered for the job where available, and can flag anything worth clarifying.
Measuring the Awkward Pieces
Once the general list is drafted, turn attention to the awkward pieces that often decide the vehicle. Measure the height, width and depth of items such as settees, tall wardrobes, ladders or sheet materials, and write each figure next to the entry. If a piece comes apart, measure the sections separately and note whether you intend to dismantle it. Check for handles, feet or castors that add height, and record the narrowest point of any corridor or doorway the item must pass through on its way out. Keep these dimensions with your inventory and hire dates, and mention them when you ask about access arrangements in Golcar. That way the team can talk through the van options available and answer any question that the measurements raise.
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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.