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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Book
Write down the inventory before anything else: how many boxes, roughly what size each one is, and which items travel loose, such as lamps, vacuum cleaners or rolled rugs. Note the dimensions of the largest boxes and any furniture that will not flatten, since these often decide which van is appropriate. Record the hire dates, including whether the move happens in one day or across a weekend, and the access arrangements at the old and new addresses, such as driveways, stairs or permits. If some boxes go to storage and others to the new home, mark them separately on your list. When you ask for a quote, share the box count, the item list and the dates, and ask which of the available vans suits your inventory and whether a Luton is an option.
Briefing a Business Delivery
Before the delivery day, prepare a short brief for each drop. Start with the recipient: a named contact, a phone number and any order reference they will expect. Then list the goods, one line per item, with quantities and packaged sizes, and flag anything fragile or unusually shaped so the team can consider it when matching you to a van. Confirm the delivery window with the recipient and note any site restrictions they mention, such as limited loading hours, since access questions are best answered by the recipient themselves. Ask who will receive the goods if the main contact is absent. When you request your quote, attach this brief and ask which van sizes are available on your dates and whether a crew van helps if a colleague is coming along.
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Last checks before booking
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.