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 Load Inventory
What belongs on paper before the van is booked? An inventory of your intended load is a good place to begin. List each item or box, its approximate dimensions and its quantity, and mark anything that is fragile, flat-packed or still to be packed. If the job involves several rooms or several people's belongings, group the list by owner or destination so nothing gets overlooked when you talk through the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van options. Note your hire dates and whether they might shift, and record the access arrangements at each end, including who to speak to on arrival. Keeping this list editable means you can revise it as the plan develops and share the current version whenever you ask for a quote.
Organising a Household Move
A household move generates a lot of loose details, so it helps to gather them in one place early. Start with your preferred moving date and any backup dates, then count the rooms in the property and note the largest items in each, recording approximate dimensions rather than descriptions alone. Ask anyone sharing the move, whether family or housemates, to confirm which belongings are theirs and which are staying behind. If items are going to more than one address, list each recipient along with a phone number for them. Questions about access at the new property, such as parking or entry arrangements, sit with the destination contact rather than the hire team. With these notes prepared, your enquiry can cover the specifics and leave room for anything still undecided.
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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.