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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Write Down What the Job Involves
Start by writing down everything the job involves, in the order it will happen. Note the hire dates and times, the addresses involved, and any access arrangements you already know about, such as gates, kerbs or restricted entry. If packing will take place on the hire day itself, allow for that in the timings you record rather than treating it as an afterthought. Sketch a rough schedule: when you expect to collect the van, how long the first stop might take and when the last drop-off should finish. If someone else needs to be present at either end, add their contact details to the same page. Questions about access at a specific destination are best directed to whoever manages that site, so keep their number separate.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
A load inventory is a written record of everything travelling in the van, and it is worth preparing before you ask for a quote. List each item with a short description and, for furniture or appliances, note the approximate height, width and depth. Record quantities as well: two wardrobes reads differently from one, and so does six boxes versus twenty. If some items belong to different people or destinations, tag each entry so nothing gets mixed up mid-job. The inventory also gives you something concrete to discuss when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and you can ask which vehicle groups the team would consider for that volume. Keep the list on your phone so you can add late items without starting again.
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Last checks before booking
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.