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.
Sketching Out an Unloading Order
If you are delivering to more than one address, which stop comes first? Before the hire, write each destination in the order you plan to visit, noting what belongs at each one and who will receive it there. This record helps you see how many separate drops are involved and whether a dropside or crew van suits the job, which the team can then discuss with you. Record the hire dates you have in mind and any access notes for each stop, such as gates or restricted entry, gathered from the destination contacts themselves. If the order of stops is still undecided, ask the hire team what information they need to check the vehicle and terms while your plan settles.
Transporting Hobby Equipment Safely by List
Suppose you are moving band equipment, model railway boards or a kayak. Start by listing every piece, then measure the longest and most awkward items and write down their dimensions, since these details are often the ones the hire team will want to see. Note any fragile pieces, items that come apart, and those that need keeping dry or flat. Share the list and measurements with the hire team alongside your dates and access arrangements, and ask directly what they recommend for the shapes involved. If you are unsure whether a particular item is practical to move yourself, raise it as an open question when you request a quote rather than assuming the answer beforehand.
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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.