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.
Coordinating a Collection With a Seller
Suppose you have agreed to collect a sofa or a set of drawers from a private seller. Before requesting your quote, gather the details that shape the booking: the collection address, the seller's phone number, the agreed pickup window and the measurements of each item, including height, width and depth. Note whether the goods sit in a ground-floor room or elsewhere, and ask the seller about parking or gate access at their end so you can relay this when you enquire. Record the delivery address and the recipient's contact details if the items are going on to someone else. Listing each piece with its dimensions lets the team match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Preparing a Business Delivery Run
When a commercial delivery is on the cards, an ordered plan of the drop points tends to pay off. Write down every recipient, their address, a phone number for each and any reference numbers attached to the goods. Note the dimensions and quantities of the items going out, plus any time windows the customers have requested. If some deliveries depend on others being completed first, mark that sequence on your list. Where the run involves several stops, count them and estimate the hire dates you will need, including any return trips to base for further stock. Passing this information to the team when you ask for a quote allows them to consider the right van type, the access arrangements at each address and the overall schedule before confirming your hire.
Explore other van hire areas
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.