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 your stops
If your move or delivery run involves several addresses, a written outline of the day can keep the plan clear. List each destination in the order you intend to visit, and beside it note which items are destined for that stop. Where a piece of furniture belongs to a particular room at the far end, a short note of that helps whoever receives it. If helpers are joining you, share the list so everyone understands the shape of the day. Record a contact number for each recipient so any question at a stop can be resolved quickly. Treat the outline as a working document: amend it if your route changes, and keep a copy alongside the rest of your hire paperwork so it is easy to refer to on the day.
Checking entrances and item dimensions
Measuring before you enquire turns guesswork into useful information. Note the height, width and depth of your largest items, particularly anything tall like wardrobes or long like sofas, and record the narrowest points they must pass through — doorways, hallways, stair turns and gate openings at both ends of the journey. If a lift is involved at either property, its internal dimensions are worth capturing as well. Compare these figures with the load space figures the team provides for each van type before settling on a small van, Transit, Luton or another option. Where a measurement is awkward to take, an estimate with a note of how confident you feel about it is still helpful. Keep the numbers with your enquiry.
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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.