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.
Measuring Items and Entrances
Will everything actually fit through the spaces involved? Measuring before you book is one of the most useful steps you can take. Note the height, width and depth of the largest items you plan to move, such as wardrobes, sofas or workbenches, and record the dimensions of any doorways, corridors, stairwells or gates at both ends of the journey. Write down whether furniture can be dismantled and whether you have the tools to do it. If an item came flat-packed originally, note whether instructions survive. Having these figures ready means you can share them when you enquire, and the team can discuss which van from the available options suits the job you have described.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Could the whole job be done in a single run, or would several shorter ones serve you? It is a question worth working through on paper first. List everything needing transport, then group the items by destination, since different addresses may suggest separate journeys. Note the dates and times attached to each collection or delivery, plus a contact name and number for anyone receiving goods. Record whether some items are flexible on timing, as goods that can wait might allow the work to be spread across more than one hire period. Once these notes are in order, bring them to your quote request along with any questions about matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
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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.