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.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Start by writing down everything that needs to travel in the van, ideally before you contact the team. A clear inventory might list each item by name, its approximate dimensions, and whether it is boxed, bagged or loose. Note the quantity of smaller pieces too, such as the number of boxes or bin bags, since these add up quickly. For furniture, record whether items come apart and whether any doors, drawers or shelves are removable. If some belongings are staying behind, mark them clearly on the list so you do not accidentally include them in the hire discussion. Photographing awkward items can also help you describe them accurately over the phone. Once the inventory is complete, you can use it when asking for a quote, and it remains useful afterwards as a checklist when you are deciding whether everything has been accounted for at each end of the journey.
Planning the Order of Unloading
Think about what will need to come off the van first at the destination, and note your priorities on paper before the hire date. If certain pieces are needed urgently, perhaps tools for a job or a bed for a first night in a new property, list them at the top of your notes. Consider where each item is going once unloaded: rooms upstairs, a garage, a storage unit or a specific floor of a building. It can help to label boxes with their destination so anyone helping can see where things belong without asking. If access at the far end involves a lift, a narrow corridor or a particular time window, note those details and raise them when you call. You might also ask whether the vehicle you are considering suits the access arrangements you have described, since that question remains open until you have discussed it with the team.
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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.