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.
Moving Boxed Belongings
How many boxes are you actually moving? Before enquiring, count them room by room and note whether that total is final or still growing. Jot down the approximate size of each stack, including any containers that are oddly shaped or particularly heavy, and flag anything that cannot be tilted or squashed, such as a boxed mirror or a stereo speaker. If belongings are destined for more than one address, write each destination beside the relevant boxes and add a contact name and number for whoever will receive them. Decide as well whether all boxes travel together or some will follow in a car. This inventory, sent with your dates and access arrangements, helps the team judge whether a small van, Transit or Luton fits the work.
Measuring Bulky Items
Which items deserve a tape measure? Anything that cannot be carried flat, such as a sofa, wardrobe, chest freezer or dining table, is worth measuring before you book. Record the height, width and depth of each piece, and note whether legs, doors or handles can be removed, since that changes the figures. If an item came in a flat-pack box, check the packaging dimensions rather than guessing. Keep the measurements with your other notes so you can quote them accurately when you enquire, and mention any piece that turns awkwardly, like a corner sofa. Passing these numbers to the team, along with your access arrangements and hire dates, gives them a factual basis for suggesting a dropside or Luton where available.
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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.