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.
Who needs to be there?
Who needs to be there, and at what time? Building a helper rota is mostly a matter of record-keeping. Write down each person's availability across your planned dates, their phone numbers and any periods they cannot cover, then match those windows against the tasks you have listed. If someone is collecting furniture on your behalf, note the shop's contact details and any order references. Agree how updates will be shared, and decide who keeps the master copy of the schedule. When you ask for a quote, you can check whether the hire dates you have pencilled in work for the vehicle you need and whether the team wants the access arrangements in writing. A named list of helpers also tells you quickly if a gap appears.
What goes and what stays?
What goes, and what stays? A written inventory answers that question before packing begins. Work through the house room by room, recording each item, its approximate dimensions and whether it dismantles. Mark anything destined for storage separately from items moving to the new address, and note fragile or awkward pieces that deserve a mention on the call. Keep your preferred dates beside the list, with any flexibility noted. For the quote, ask whether your inventory points towards a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and what access information would help the team. Update the list as decisions change, because a revised inventory keeps the booking conversation accurate and gives you a checklist to work from on the day.
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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.