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 your boxed belongings
Begin with a room-by-room list of every box you plan to move, numbering each one and noting its contents in a word or two. Record roughly how many boxes there are, plus their typical size, and measure any that are unusually large. Add the loose items that will not fit in boxes: lamps, mirrors, bicycles or vacuum cleaners. Against each entry, write the destination room at the new address so nothing arrives unaccounted for. Keep this list on your phone and bring a printed copy on the day. When you ask for a quote, read out the totals and the largest measurements, then ask whether the team would suggest anything else worth recording before the hire is confirmed.
Notes for each stop on moving day
If boxes are going to more than one address, a short written running order avoids confusion. For every stop, note the address, the name and mobile number of whoever is receiving items, and the hours they will be present. Mark which box numbers belong at each address, and keep a separate note of items staying with you. Where a destination has gates, entry codes or limited hours, those details come from the recipient, so collect them when you confirm the visit. Note any deadline as well, such as keys being returned by a set time. Sharing the full running order with the hire team means open points can be raised before the booking is finalised.
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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.