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.
Box Counts and Dimensions to Note First
Write down the basics before anything else: the number of boxes, the rooms they come from and the hire dates you have in mind. Measuring a few representative boxes gives you approximate dimensions to quote, and noting which ones contain books or other dense contents helps describe the load accurately. If furniture travels alongside the boxes, list each piece and its widest measurement. Keep a note of where items are going, especially if some are headed to storage and others to a new address, and record who will receive them at each end. A numbered list matching box labels keeps the whole process organised. Send the totals and dimensions with your enquiry so the team can suggest a suitable van from the range available.
Maintaining an Inventory That Stays Accurate
An inventory is only useful if it reflects what actually travels, so update it as items are added or left behind. Group entries by destination, note quantities for each line, and mark anything that needs particular care or has an awkward shape. Photographing the finished list, or keeping it in a notes app, means you can share it quickly when asking about vehicle choice. If friends are helping on the day, make sure each person knows which items they are looking out for and has a contact number for the recipient. Questions worth raising with the team include whether a small van or a Luton is the better fit for your described load, and what access details they need from you. A clear list lets you compare the reply against your own figures.
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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.