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.
What to Write Down Before Moving Boxes
Start with a written list of everything you intend to move. For each boxed item, note a brief description, the approximate size and how many boxes of that type you have, so a stack of twelve book boxes reads as a single line with a quantity rather than a dozen separate entries. Alongside the inventory, record your hire dates, including the collection and return times you have in mind, and the addresses involved at both ends. If any boxes belong to another household or a storage facility, note the contact details for whoever controls access at those places. Keep the list handy when you enquire, because the team can then suggest which van from the available range suits your load, and you will have the numbers ready to answer any follow-up questions before the price is confirmed.
Checking Sizes of Boxes and Doorways
Dimensions deserve attention before any van is booked. Measure your largest boxes and any unboxed items, recording height, width and depth, and compare those figures with the doorways, hallways and stairwells the boxes must pass through at both the pick-up and drop-off points. If the destination is a storage unit, a flat with a shared entrance or a shop with a rear door, ask the people responsible for that site about access, opening hours and any restrictions, since they hold that information. Note down what they tell you alongside your box inventory. Also record how many bags or loose items sit outside the boxes, as these are easy to overlook. Sharing the full set of figures and access notes when you request a quote lets the team match your job to a suitable van and flag any open questions in advance.
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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.