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.
Writing a Load Inventory Before You Book
The single most useful thing you can write down is a list of everything going in the van. Work through the property room by room, or the job site item by item, and note each piece alongside its approximate dimensions. For furniture, record width, depth and height, and flag anything that comes apart into smaller sections. Count boxes rather than estimating them, and note any unusually long or awkwardly shaped items separately. If the load spans more than one destination, mark which items belong at each address. This inventory does two jobs: it lets you discuss the job with the team in concrete terms, and it gives you a checklist to refer to on the day. Keep it somewhere you can add to as you remember further items.
Noting the Sequence for Each Stop
Alongside the inventory, it pays to record the practical details of each stop. Write down the addresses involved in the order you plan to reach them, and note what belongs at each one so nothing is carried to the wrong place. Add contact details for anyone receiving goods so you can confirm timing windows with them directly, and note any questions you still have about access at the far end. This working document can be revised whenever plans shift, shared with anyone assisting, and used as a reference point throughout the job. Keeping it alongside your inventory means the team can see the full shape of the job when you ask for a quote.
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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.