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.
Preparing a Business Delivery Step by Step
If you are lining up a delivery for a customer, the paperwork you prepare beforehand can matter as much as the van itself. Begin with the delivery date and any time window the customer has requested, then record the full delivery address and a contact name and number for the receiving site. List the items going out, with dimensions and approximate weights for anything bulky, and note whether the customer expects items to be brought to a specific door or room. Ask the customer directly about access, parking or waiting arrangements, since those answers sit with them. Keep the order reference and any special instructions alongside the item list, and include the whole set when you request a quote so the vehicle choice can be matched to the job.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before a Move
Moving boxed belongings goes more smoothly when every carton is written down before the hire date. Go room by room and note each box along with a short description of its contents, then add the dimensions of any unusually large or awkward pieces, such as rolled rugs or flat-packed furniture. Mark which boxes are fragile and which need to reach the new address first, purely as a labelling exercise rather than a packing method. Count the total boxes so you can compare the figure against the space you expect to need, and keep the list handy on the day for ticking items off. If some belongings are staying behind or going to storage, list those separately. Sharing the finished inventory with the team helps the vehicle match be reviewed against the actual load.
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.