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.
Getting Helpers Confirmed Early
Who will actually be present on moving day? If the job relies on two or three people, confirm each helper's availability before you book the van rather than afterwards. Note their names, phone numbers and the hours they can commit, and identify who holds keys to the old and new properties or the storage unit. If someone might drop out, decide in advance whether the date shifts or the plan continues without them, and record that decision. Where helpers are meeting you rather than travelling with you, write down the address and time for each meeting point. Sharing the hire dates, what you need to carry and the access arrangements with the team then allows them to suggest a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Building a Packing Timeline
How much time should sit between booking and moving day? A written timeline helps you see the answer. Mark the hire dates first, then work backwards: note when each room will be sorted, when boxes need labels with their destination room, and when furniture should be dismantled and measured. Record the approximate dimensions of large pieces and the total number of boxes as you go, since these figures are useful when the team matches the load to a van type. If items are going into storage, note the unit's access hours and the contact number there. Any questions about access at the destination belong to whoever manages that property, so ask them directly rather than assuming.
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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.