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.
Comparing One Trip with Several
Before you settle on hire dates, decide whether you would rather complete the job in a single run or spread it across two or more. If you are weighing one trip against several, write out both versions of the plan side by side: the total number of items, the dates each version would use, and how many helpers you would need on each occasion. Note the opening hours or access windows at the destination for every proposed date, confirming these with the contact there, and record a name and phone number for anyone receiving goods. You may find it useful to list which items could wait for a later run and which must travel on the first one. When you ask about a van, questions worth raising include how the hire period is counted, whether back-to-back days are possible if you choose several trips, and which vehicle option suits the quantities you have written down.
Planning the Unloading Order
Rather than deciding how items will be placed, focus on recording the order in which things need to come off at the other end. Make a simple list that groups your belongings by destination room or recipient, and note which boxes and furniture belong to each. If goods are going to more than one address, write the sequence of stops and a named contact with a phone number for every drop-off point. Consider noting which items you will want immediately on arrival, such as tools for a job or kettle and mugs for a first evening, so these can be identified quickly. You might also record any time restrictions at each stop once confirmed with the people there.
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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.