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.
Sketching the Order of a Household Move
Which details should you record once a moving date is booked? Start by writing a room-by-room inventory of the furniture that will travel, noting rough widths and heights for the larger pieces so nothing is guessed at later. If a wardrobe dismantles or a bed frame separates, record that alongside the entry, and keep a running count of boxes as packing progresses. Note the access arrangements at both addresses and your preferred hire dates. Thinking the order through in advance also helps you spot questions worth asking before the hire begins, such as whether the team would like the full item list in a particular format when you request a quote for your chosen dates.
Coordinating Helpers Around the Hire
Who is going to be available, and when? If friends or relatives have offered a hand, it pays to confirm their hours early and write those times next to your plan for the day. Note who will hold keys, who is meeting you at the other end, and a phone number for each person involved, including anyone receiving furniture at the destination. Where helpers can only come for part of the day, you might schedule the tasks you would most like assistance with during their window. Recording these details in one place keeps everyone working from the same sheet. When you ask about a van for your dates, you can also check whether the team has any preferences about how you describe the job, which may shape what you send across in your quote request.
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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.