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.
Listing Your Boxes Before the Move
Start with a written inventory of everything going into boxes, grouped by room, with a note of how many boxes each room produces. Record approximate dimensions for the largest items, such as wardrobes or sofas, alongside any awkward shapes that do not fit standard boxes. If some contents are fragile or need keeping upright, mark that on the list rather than relying on memory. A count of the total boxes, bags and loose items gives you a figure to mention when describing the job, and it helps to note which items are going to storage rather than the new address. Keep the list with you on the day so you can tick things off and spot anything missing at either end.
Working Out the Order of Stops
Sketch the route before the hire date, listing each stop in the sequence you intend to visit, together with an arrival window for each one. Note a contact name and phone number for every address, whether that is a friend holding a sofa or a storage facility reception, so you can ring ahead if timings slip. It is worth asking each destination about access, parking and opening hours yourself, since those details sit with the site rather than the hire team. Write down which items belong at which stop, then number the boxes accordingly, perhaps with a marker pen on the tape. If a collection point has limited hours, record that beside the address so the whole plan stays realistic.
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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.