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.
Working out what you need to carry
Start with a written inventory before anything goes near the van. Go room by room, list each item you plan to take, and add approximate dimensions for the bulky pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Count the boxes as you pack and keep the tally current, because a figure from a fortnight ago rarely matches the final one. Note anything awkward, such as a bicycle, mirror or rolled carpet, and measure it if you can. Share the finished list with the team when you enquire, along with your dates and the access arrangements at each end. Questions worth asking include whether a dropside or Luton suits your load and what the crew van option covers if helpers are coming along.
Setting dates and access details in advance
Suppose your move or collection is fixed to a particular weekend; the next step is pinning down every time that matters. Write the hire dates, the collection window at the old address and the delivery window at the new one, then check both with the people involved. Ask your storage facility or the seller of a furniture item when they can receive you, and record a contact name and number for each end of the journey in case plans shift. If a building has restrictions on when goods can be taken in, that belongs in your notes too. When you request a quote, mention the access arrangements, the full item list and how many people will travel in the van. Open questions to raise include which van types suit your load and whether the hire period can be extended if the job overruns.
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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.