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.
Picking a suitable van
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
What exactly is going in the van? Write the answer down before anything else. List every item you plan to carry, from boxes and bags to furniture and appliances, and give each a short description. Note the quantity of anything that comes in multiples, such as ten boxes of books or three rolls of carpet. Record which items belong together and which are heading to separate addresses, since that affects how you describe the job. Mark anything that is fragile or unusually shaped so it stands out on the list. Add the contact details of anyone receiving goods at the destination, including a phone number, and note any access details they have given you. Keep the inventory with your hire paperwork, because you will refer to it when requesting a quote and again when checking everything has travelled as planned.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Before requesting a price, measure the largest items you intend to move and record the figures alongside your inventory. Note the length, width and height of each bulky piece, taking the widest points, and jot down whether anything can be separated into smaller parts, such as a bed frame or a table with removable legs. If an item has awkward protrusions, like handles or spouts, mention those measurements too. Write down door widths at both ends of the journey if you know them, and ask the receiving contact about any restrictions at the destination, since they are best placed to answer questions about access there. Once your measurements are noted, you can pass them on with your enquiry. If you are unsure whether a particular van suits your largest item, ask the team directly rather than guessing, and keep the figures to hand for the conversation.
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Last checks before booking
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.