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.
Thinking Through the Delivery Order
If your van trip ends with items being dropped at more than one address, the order of those stops is something you can settle before the hire begins. Write out each destination, the items bound for it and a named contact with a phone number, then arrange the stops into a route that makes sense to you. Note any time windows the recipients have given and whether each address has particular access arrangements. It also helps to label your list so that items for the final stop are easy to identify when the moment comes. If a recipient might not be home, ask them in advance where items should be left and record the answer. Sharing the stop list with your dates and access notes when you enquire keeps the whole arrangement in one place for discussion.
Building a Reliable Load List
A load list built before the van arrives gives you something concrete to work from on the day. Go room by room or job by job and note each item, adding approximate dimensions for furniture and anything oversized. Count quantities carefully, especially for boxes and bags, since tallies made in a hurry often miss things. Flag anything fragile or awkwardly shaped so it stands out on the list, and keep a copy with you when collecting the vehicle. If the load changes before the hire date, update the list rather than trying to remember the difference. Sending the finished inventory over with your dates and access notes allows the team to match the job to the right van and quote with confidence.
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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.