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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
How do you know whether your largest item will clear the doorway at the other end? Start by measuring the pieces you plan to move, noting height, width and depth for each, along with whether anything dismantles. Then contact the destination, whether that is a friend, a storage facility or a business, and ask about entrance widths, corridor turns, lift dimensions and any restrictions they apply. Record what they tell you alongside a phone number for whoever will be present on the day. With this list prepared, you can share the access arrangements and item sizes with the team, discuss which van suits the load and confirm the hire dates with confidence in the details you have gathered.
Planning the Unloading Order
Once the dimensions are noted, think about how the items will be organised at the other end. Rather than deciding on the day, sketch a simple plan beforehand: which pieces are needed immediately at the destination, which go into storage and which belong in a particular room. Note any items that two people must handle together, and flag pieces with awkward shapes or detachable parts. Record the expected arrival window and a contact number for whoever is receiving the goods. Sharing this outline with the team alongside the access arrangements and hire dates helps the booking reflect the whole job, and any questions about vehicle choice can be settled at the same time, with unconfirmed details marked as pending until they are settled.
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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.