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.
Planning the Order of Your Items
Before your hire begins, it can help to write out which items are going where. If the load serves two destinations, such as a storage unit and a new address, list the pieces for each stop separately so nothing is overlooked. Recording the dimensions of larger furniture, along with the total number of boxes, gives the team a clearer picture when matching you to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. You might also photograph awkward items to refer to later. Questions worth raising include whether your preferred van type is free on the chosen dates, what the collection time would be, and how access at each end is arranged. A simple written inventory turns a busy day into a calmer one.
Coordinating Helpers for Moving Day
Should friends or family be joining you, sort out their availability as soon as your dates are fixed. Note who is coming, when they can start, and whether anyone needs to leave early, since this may influence how you schedule the day. If helpers are travelling in the van, ask the team how many seats the model you are considering provides, because crew vans and standard vans differ in this respect. You may also want to confirm whether additional drivers should appear on the booking. A shared list of the items involved, perhaps sent by message, lets everyone see the scope before arrival. When you request a quote, raise any questions about timing, vehicle availability or collection arrangements, and the team can talk you through the options.
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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.