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
The first task is a written list of every boxed item you intend to move. Group the boxes by room or by destination, and note roughly how many there are in each category. If some boxes hold fragile or unusually shaped goods, mark them so you can describe them accurately later. Record the sizes of the largest boxes, since those figures help when the team matches your job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Where boxes are going to different addresses, add a contact name and number for each recipient. Keep the list updated as you pack, because a final count taken on the day may differ from your earlier estimate.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
If you are deciding between a single outing and splitting the move across two or more, write down the pros and cons of each approach before enquiring. Note the total volume of goods, the distance involved and how many people can help on each potential day. Consider whether recipients at every stop are available on one date only or across several, and record their answers when you ask. If some items are needed urgently and others can wait, mark which category each belongs to. These notes give the team a fuller picture when they discuss vehicle options and dates with you. Any questions about scheduling that remain open can be raised during the same conversation.
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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.