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.
Listing your boxed belongings in advance
The first step is a written list of everything going into boxes. Note how many boxes you expect, their approximate sizes, and which rooms they come from, since this can be useful when unpacking later. Alongside the boxes, record the larger loose items, such as furniture, appliances or garden equipment, with a rough measurement of each, including height, width and depth. If some belongings are staying behind or going to separate addresses, mark those clearly on the list. You might also note which items are fragile or need particular care, purely so the list reflects the job accurately. When you contact the team, this record lets you describe what you need to carry in concrete terms, and any questions about matching the load to a van can be raised while the details are fresh.
Keeping a load inventory for the day
An inventory can be as simple as a numbered list on your phone. For each item, record a short description, its destination if you are dropping things at more than one address, and a box number where relevant. If items are being collected from a shop, a house clearance or a storage unit, note the reference numbers and the contact name at each end. Take a moment to photograph items before they are wrapped, in case a record is needed later. As the day progresses, you can tick items off the list so you know everything has reached its destination. Keeping this inventory with you during the hire means you can answer questions about what remains, and it gives you something to check against if anything is unclear at the end of the job.
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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.