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.
Noting the Order You Want Things Delivered
If your day involves dropping different loads at several addresses, a written plan of what goes where saves confusion later. Start by listing each stop in the order you expect to make it, then note which items belong at each one, from furniture and boxes to tools and materials. Where possible, record approximate dimensions for the larger pieces, since this helps when discussing van options. Add a contact name and number for every recipient, particularly for business deliveries where someone must sign or unlock a door. You might also note any time windows each address has given you. Questions to raise when enquiring include whether a crew van suits mixed loads and what happens if a stop is cancelled on the day.
Moving Hobby Equipment Between Venues
Suppose you have bought a secondhand canoe, or your band has a gig and the amps need transporting. Hobby loads tend to be awkward shapes rather than heavy weights, so measurements matter. Note the length, width and height of each item, whether any of it dismantles, and how many people will travel in the van with the gear. Sketch an itinerary too: where the kit starts, where it finishes and any deadline attached, such as a race start or soundcheck. If the equipment belongs to a club, record who is responsible for it at each end of the journey and their phone numbers. When asking for a quote, you could ask which van options are available for your dates and put any access questions to the contacts at each stop.
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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.