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.
Coordinating Helpers for Your Move
Who is going to be there on the day? Before you confirm the hire, write down the names of everyone helping, their arrival times and a phone number for each. Agree whether they are needed at the collection point, at the destination or at both, and note any windows when particular people are unavailable. If helpers are bringing their own vehicles for smaller items, record that too, since it may affect what needs to travel in the van. Share the hire dates with everyone once confirmed, and update the list if someone drops out or a new person offers. A clear list of who is doing what prevents confusion on a busy morning and gives the team accurate information about your access arrangements.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
Hobby gear deserves its own list before you book. Record each piece of equipment, its dimensions and whether it can be dismantled for travel. Items such as model aircraft, photography rigs, pottery wheels or cycling gear vary enormously in shape, so measurements matter more than general descriptions. Note how many separate pieces there are, which of them are fragile, and whether any need to stay upright during the journey. If the equipment belongs to a group, write down who is responsible for each item while it is in transit. Send these details with your enquiry so the team can consider them properly, and raise any specific questions about your load when you ask for a quote rather than afterwards.
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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.