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 Where Each Item Is Headed
If your load is going to more than one destination, a written plan of what goes where can be drawn up before the hire begins. List every item with its destination beside it, whether that is a storage unit, a customer's address or a room in a new home, and add the recipient's name and phone number for each drop. Note the dimensions of the largest pieces so the whole consignment can be described accurately when you book. Decide the sequence of the drops on paper and share it with anyone else involved on the day. When you request a quote, present the list and the dates, then ask what else the team would like to know, such as access arrangements at each address or which van options suit the volume described.
Allowing Enough Time for Packing Days
Suppose the move or delivery is still a week away. That gap is worth mapping out now rather than later. Mark the hire date on a calendar, then work backwards and decide which days will be spent packing, which items will be dealt with first in your own schedule, and when any helpers are free. Write an inventory as you go, counting boxes and noting furniture sizes, so the final list reflects everything rather than a rough guess. Record the access details at each end, including parking or gate arrangements, and keep the contact numbers for anyone receiving goods. When you ask about a van, share the dates and the full item list, and raise open questions about vehicle availability and anything the team still needs clarified.
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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.