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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Planning the unloading order
If your delivery involves several stops, sketching the sequence on paper before you request a quote can clarify a lot. List each address in the order you expect to visit, along with a contact name and number for whoever receives goods at each one. Note which items go where, perhaps marking boxes by room or by recipient, so nothing gets left behind at an intermediate stop. Include approximate item dimensions for the larger pieces, since this helps the team suggest whether a Transit or a Luton suits the run. Write down the hire dates and any access details you already know, such as gate codes or restricted hours supplied by the sites. Any further questions about entry arrangements at each stop belong with the contact there.
Keeping a load inventory
An inventory kept on your phone or printed out gives you something to check against at every stage of the trip. For each entry, record the item name, approximate size, destination address and the recipient's phone number. Number the boxes and add a brief contents note, which helps if a customer asks where a particular parcel has gone. Photograph larger or unusual items, such as a wardrobe or a rolled carpet, and store the images with the list. If part of the load is heading to storage and part to a house, tag those entries differently so the split is obvious. Share the finished list with anyone meeting the van. Questions about a storage site's own check-in process should be directed to that site's staff.
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Things to check 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.