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.
Recording the Job Before You Ring
Begin with a written list of everything the van will carry. For a house move this might be room by room; for a furniture collection it might be a handful of items with their dimensions. Note the height, width and depth of anything oversized, and mark which pieces can be dismantled. Record the hire dates, including whether the job could spill into a second day, and where the van is needed at each end. Add the access details you already know: entry times, whether someone will be on site, and any contact numbers for the people receiving or releasing goods. Questions still open, such as whether a Luton or dropside suits the load, can go on the same page. A complete record lets you answer the team's questions quickly and gives you something to check against when the hire is confirmed.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Begin with a written list of everything the van will carry. For a house move this might be room by room; for a furniture collection it might be a handful of items with their dimensions. Note the height, width and depth of anything oversized, and mark which pieces can be dismantled. Record the hire dates, including whether the job could spill into a second day, and where the van is needed at each end. Add the access details you already know: entry times, whether someone will be on site, and any contact numbers for the people receiving or releasing goods. Questions still open, such as which vehicle might work for the load, can go on the same page. A complete record lets you answer the team's questions quickly and gives you something to check against when the hire is confirmed.
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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.