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 Boxed Belongings Before You Call
Start with a written inventory of everything going into boxes: room by room, note the items, the approximate number of containers and the size of the largest ones. Record any oddly shaped pieces, such as rolled carpets, lamp shades or mirrors, since these often influence which van makes sense for the job. Mark fragile boxes on your list and decide how you will identify them at the new address. If some belongings are staying behind, separate those clearly so your final count stays accurate. Once your inventory is complete, share it with the team along with your access arrangements and hire dates, and ask any questions you have about the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van options. A clear list also gives you something to check against when the move is finished.
Coordinating Helpers for Moving Day
Write down the names and contact numbers of everyone who has offered to help, alongside the dates and times each person is available. Confirm whether any helper can only attend for part of the day, and note if somebody might bring additional boxes or equipment of their own. Agree a start time and a point where everyone will gather, and record who holds keys to the properties involved. If a helper drops out, update your list and consider whether the remaining numbers still work for your plan. Share the helper count and schedule with the team when discussing your hire, and raise any questions about vehicle availability or collection arrangements at the same time. Keeping these details in one place means you can answer questions quickly if arrangements change before the van is booked.
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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.