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.
Building a Load Inventory Before You Enquire
Before anything is booked, it helps to have a single written record of the load. Start with a count of every item, then add approximate dimensions for the larger pieces and note which ones come apart, such as bed frames or shelving. Mark any boxes that contain fragile goods and record quantities for each line, since a list of twelve identical boxes reads differently from twelve assorted ones. Where the job involves more than one stop, note the address and a contact name for each, so you can confirm arrangements with the people receiving goods. Keep the inventory handy when you contact the team, because questions about which vehicle suits the job can then be answered with reference to real figures rather than guesses. Anything you are still unsure about measuring is worth checking before you ask for a quote.
Recording Boxed Belongings Room by Room
Boxed belongings are usually easier to plan once they are listed by source. Go through each room and note the boxes as you find them: kitchen, three boxes; study, four; garage, six, and so on. Against each entry, add an approximate size and whether the contents are heavy, fragile or neither. This record serves two purposes, giving you a clear picture of the scale of the move and supplying the hire team with the details they need to suggest a vehicle. If some boxes are going into storage, write the storage reference and the hours you have been given by the facility. You might also note the dates you are considering and the access arrangements at both ends, plus any questions that remain open, such as whether a crew van is the right call for a mixed load.
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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.