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.
Sketching an Order for the Day
If you are moving house or clearing a property, a rough running order for the day can be written before the van is booked. List which rooms or addresses you will visit, in which sequence, and note the times any keys, access codes or contacts are needed at each stop. Record the names and numbers of anyone at the destination who should be told of your arrival, and decide whether the hire needs to cover a return leg later the same day or a second day altogether. Where the plan involves several addresses, note which items belong at each one so nothing is carried to the wrong place. Questions about the hire period, the vehicle group or handover arrangements can be raised when you enquire, and a written order of events helps you spot gaps while the plan is still flexible.
Writing Down Everything in the Load
Suppose the job mixes furniture, appliances and boxed goods; an inventory prepared in advance gives you a clear brief for the enquiry. Count the boxes room by room, list each large item separately, and measure the longest, widest and tallest pieces so their dimensions are on record. Note any items with awkward shapes, drawers that cannot be removed or doors that come off, since these details help the team discuss the right van. Mark which possessions belong to which address if the load serves more than one destination, and keep the list somewhere you can update as items are added or removed. Sharing the finished inventory with your dates and access notes lets the team talk through the options, and any gaps you spot can be closed before the quote is requested.
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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.