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.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
A written inventory is the first thing to prepare before asking for a van. List every item you intend to move, room by room or job by job, and give each large piece a rough set of dimensions so nothing is guessed at later. Count the boxes, note any furniture that comes apart, and record fragile or unusual pieces separately. If goods are heading to several addresses, write the recipient names, phone numbers and any delivery notes against each part of the list. Where access matters, such as a narrow lane or a shared yard, jot down what you know and keep the destination contact's details to hand for anything you cannot confirm yourself. Finish by listing your questions for the quote, including the hire dates you have in mind and which van types you would like discussed.
Transporting Hobby Equipment by Van
Hobby gear often has odd shapes, so start by writing down exactly what needs to travel. Whether it is sailing kit, model railway boards, camping equipment or instruments, measure the longest and bulkiest pieces and note whether anything dismantles. Record the total number of bags, cases or crates and any item that stands unusually tall. Set out the dates you need the van, including whether an early start or late return might apply, and think through the itinerary: where the equipment is coming from, where it is going and whether anyone will receive it at the far end. If a club, venue or shop is involved, note a contact name and number there in case access questions arise. Close your notes with the points you want the quote to address, such as van availability on those dates and any other queries the team can settle.
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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.