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.
Checking Entrances and Item Sizes
Will your largest item actually pass through the spaces involved? Before requesting a van, measure the height and width of any entrances, gateways, corridors or doorways at both ends of the journey, and compare those figures against the dimensions of your bulkiest pieces. Note each item's length, depth and height on paper, including anything that cannot be turned sideways or carried at an angle. If a piece of furniture comes apart, record which sections separate and how big each one becomes. Where a measurement is borderline, mark it clearly rather than rounding it optimistically, and keep the full list with your enquiry so the team can see the numbers at a glance.
Sketching an Unloading Sequence
It can help to note down the order in which items will come off at the destination, purely as information for your own planning. List which pieces are needed first at the far end, which can wait, and which belong to specific rooms or recipients. If several people will be receiving items, record their names and contact numbers so arrangements can be confirmed with each of them. Note any time limits at the destination, such as a booking slot or an agreed window, and mention them when you enquire. A simple written sequence, even a rough one, gives you something to refer back to and makes it easier to answer questions the team may raise about your load.
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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.