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.
Coordinating Your Helpers
Who will be on hand to assist with your move or collection, and are they definitely free on the hire dates you have in mind? Before you confirm anything, write down the names of your helpers, their availability, and a contact number for each. If someone can only come for part of the day, note the hours they can manage so you can plan the schedule around them. You might also record which tasks each helper will take on and whether any items require two people to move, along with their approximate sizes. Where a collection address or storage facility has a named contact, add their details too. Sharing the full picture with the team when you enquire helps them understand the scope of the job and match it to the right van.
Planning the Unloading Order
If your van will finish its journey at a new address or a storage unit, sketching an unloading plan before the day arrives can keep things straightforward. List which items belong at which destination, note the approximate dimensions of the largest pieces, and mark anything that needs to reach a particular room or floor. Where multiple stops are involved, record the order you intend to visit them and a contact name at each. It is also sensible to note any time limits at the destination, such as a storage facility's closing hours, so you can discuss realistic timings with the team. Keeping this written record means you can describe the job clearly when booking and refer back to it throughout the day.
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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.