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 Are Needed
If you are unloading at more than one stop, sketch the sequence before the hire date rather than working it out on the day. Write down each address in the order you expect to visit, then note which items belong at each one. For a move that combines a storage unit with a new home, for example, you might list which boxes go to which destination and which furniture stays with you. Recording item dimensions and approximate quantities against each stop keeps the list usable when you speak to the team about matching a vehicle. It also helps to note any recipient names and phone numbers for each drop-off point, so that if a collection or delivery window changes, the people expecting goods can be told directly rather than left waiting without notice.
Arranging a Collection with a Seller
When you are collecting furniture or appliances bought privately, confirm the details with the seller before requesting your quote. Ask for the full collection address, the earliest and latest times they will accept a pickup, and a phone number you can reach on the day. Find out whether the item comes apart, and if so, request the dimensions of each component along with any fittings that were removed. If someone else will sign for or receive the goods, record their name and contact details too. Questions worth asking the seller include whether help will be available at their end, whether the item is on a ground floor or above, and whether parking or access restrictions apply at the property. Passing the access arrangements and dates to the team allows a suitable van to be matched to the job.
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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.