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.
Recording the Order Items Will Be Handled
If you are moving a mixed load, it can be worth jotting down which items you expect to deal with first at each stop before the hire day arrives. This is simply a written list, not a loading method: note each piece in the sequence you plan to work through, alongside the address it belongs to and any recipient name or phone number connected with it. Where a delivery has a specific time window, write that beside the item so nothing gets missed when plans change on the day. You might also flag anything fragile or awkwardly shaped so the information is to hand if the team asks about the load when matching you to a van. Keep the list somewhere reachable, and update it if you drop or add jobs, since a clear record reduces confusion when several stops are involved.
Noting Entrance and Item Measurements
Suppose a sofa will not pass through the doorway at its destination. Checking beforehand turns that into a note rather than a problem, so measure the widest and tallest points of each large item and write the figures down before requesting a quote. Record the door, hallway, stair or lift dimensions at both ends of the journey too, and if you are unsure whether something fits, keep the measurements ready to pass on. It also helps to count the total number of pieces, including bags and loose boxes, since the team will ask what you are carrying when suggesting a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Where access involves narrow lanes, gates or parking restrictions, note those details as well and raise any questions with the people at the destination, since they know their own entrance best.
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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.