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.
Getting Helpers Organised Early
How many people will actually be there on the day? Pin this down before anything else. Ask each helper to confirm their availability in writing, then record names, phone numbers and the times they can commit to. If some can only spare part of the day, note the window for each person rather than assuming everyone stays until the job ends. Decide who holds keys to the properties involved, who will meet the van, and who to call if someone drops out. Sharing the dates with helpers as soon as they are fixed gives everyone a chance to flag conflicts. You might also assign someone to keep the item list and access notes to hand, so questions raised during the job can be answered quickly. Any gaps left after these conversations are worth raising with the team when you request a quote.
Measuring Bulky Items in Advance
Which pieces are going to be awkward? That question is best answered with a tape measure rather than guesswork. Go through your list of furniture, appliances and boxes, and record the length, width and height of anything oversized, along with whether it can be dismantled and, if so, the dimensions once taken apart. Note the weight printed on packaging where it is visible, and photograph items that are hard to describe in words. If a sofa, wardrobe or piece of equipment needs particular handling, write down its dimensions separately so the team can advise on the options. Keeping these measurements on your phone means you can answer follow-up questions immediately, which helps the quotation process move along without delays.
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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.