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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
Who is going to be there with you? Before the hire dates are fixed, list the people who have agreed to help and check they are free for the whole period you have in mind, not just the morning. Note a contact number for each helper and the time you expect them to arrive, and agree in advance who will meet the van if the collection or delivery time changes. If helpers are only available for part of the day, record those windows so you can plan which parts of the job happen when. Share the item list with everyone involved so nobody is surprised by what turns up on the day. Open questions about collection arrangements can go to the team.
Planning the Order of Your Unloading
Think ahead to the point where the van arrives and everything needs to come out again. If some items are going to one address and some to another, note which destination comes first and what belongs at each stop, so you can brief your helpers before you set off. Label boxes by room or recipient and keep a written inventory to check against as items come off. If someone will receive goods at the far end, record their name and number, and ask them about access and any time limits at their property. For trade work or deliveries, confirm where the customer expects items to be left. Any remaining access questions can be raised with the team when arranging the hire.
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Last checks before booking
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.