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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
The starting point is a complete list of what will travel in the van. Record every item, from large furniture to small boxes, and note approximate dimensions for anything bulky such as wardrobes, sofas or shelving units. Number the boxes and label which room each belongs to, since this helps at the delivery end and gives you a checklist if plans change. Photograph items of particular value or fragility so you have a record of their condition beforehand. If some belongings are staying behind or going to storage, keep those on a separate list. When you request a quote, share the inventory summary, the item sizes and the access arrangements at each address, then ask whether anything on the list would affect the vehicle the team recommends for your dates.
Planning a Household Move
Which date works, and what needs to happen either side of it? Note your preferred moving day, any deadline such as a tenancy end, and whether a flexible date could apply if one exists. List the addresses involved, including any intermediate stops such as a storage facility, and record a contact name and number for each, whether that is an agent, a landlord or a new owner. If keys are released at a specific time, write that down alongside the hire hours you expect to need. Decide which items travel with you personally rather than in the van and mark them off the main inventory. When you enquire, give the dates, the addresses, the access details and your item summary, and ask any outstanding questions about how the day could be structured.
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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.