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.
Recording what you need to move
If a house move is on the horizon, start by listing everything you plan to take. Go room by room and note large furniture with its approximate height, width and depth, since those measurements matter when discussing whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van is the right match. Count boxes and bags separately so you have a total to quote. Decide your preferred hire dates, including any spare day in case the move runs longer than expected. Where items are destined for storage or a new address, keep a note of references and a contact number for whoever receives them. This written inventory gives the team something concrete to work from when you ask for a quote.
Getting a delivery schedule ready
For business deliveries, a clear schedule saves a lot of back-and-forth. List each delivery address with the recipient's name and phone number, and note the goods heading to each stop along with their approximate size and quantity. Contact the receiving businesses yourself to ask about their opening hours and any site arrangements, as they are best placed to describe their own premises. Fix your hire dates and consider whether a return load of collections could be added to the same run. If any drop-off has a deadline, mark it clearly on your list. When you approach the team, these details support an informed conversation about vehicle options and availability for the days you have in mind.
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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.