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 a load inventory before booking
Start by listing everything you expect to carry, since this single document shapes the rest of the booking. Go room by room if it is a house move, or item by item for a furniture collection, and note the approximate dimensions of the largest pieces, such as a three-seat sofa, a wardrobe or a dining table. Count the boxes and record any awkward shapes, like a bicycle or a mirror. If goods are going into storage, note the unit number and access hours. Where a delivery is involved, write down the recipient's name, address and phone number so they can be reached on the day. This inventory gives the team a clear picture of the load when discussing whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job.
Setting aside enough time for the schedule
How long the whole job takes is worth estimating before you fix your hire dates. If you are packing on the day of the move, consider whether starting the evening before, or booking the van for an additional day, would make the schedule less rushed. Note any fixed windows, such as a shop collection slot, a storage facility's opening hours or a buyer waiting at a specific time, and arrange the day around the least flexible of these. Record the access arrangements at each address, including anything that affects arrival, and a contact number for whoever is receiving items at the far end. These notes help when agreeing the dates with the team and give you a realistic framework for the day itself.
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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.