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.
Writing Down What the Job Involves
Before anything else, put the details of the job on paper. Start with the dates and times you would need the van, then list every item you expect to carry, from boxes and bags to furniture, tools or materials. Beside each item, note its approximate dimensions and, if relevant, whether it comes apart, since a dismantled wardrobe reads very differently on a list than an assembled one. Record the addresses involved, including any collection points, storage units or delivery recipients, along with a contact name and phone number for each. If access at either end involves gates, narrow entries or particular opening hours, write that down too, and check anything uncertain directly with the people on site. When you ask for a quote, send the whole list so the team can see the scope of the job and suggest which van might suit it.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
It is worth thinking through how many journeys the job might take before you settle on dates. Sketch the route as a sequence: what gets collected first, where it goes, and whether anything needs to come back again afterwards. If some items are heading to different recipients, note the addresses and their preferred delivery windows, and ask each recipient how they want to be contacted on the day. You might find that splitting the list into two runs on different days suits the items better, or that one longer day covers everything; either way, the decision is easier once the list is written out. When you contact the team, mention the number of trips you have in mind and the hours you would need the van for, since that affects which dates and vehicles can be offered. Any questions about access at a destination are best directed to the people there.
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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.