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.
Planning the unloading order
If your van will be emptied at more than one stop, sketching the order on paper before the hire can save confusion later. Write down each address, who will receive the items there, and a contact number for every recipient, then number the stops in the sequence you intend to follow. Beside each entry, list the items destined for that address, including any furniture measurements you have taken, so you can see at a glance what belongs where. Where a stop involves a business, note its opening hours and the name of the person expecting the delivery. Any questions about gates, parking or access at each address are best directed to the recipient or site contact, since they know the arrangements there. This record can accompany your booking enquiry.
Keeping a load inventory
Should you be carrying a wide mix of goods, a written inventory is worth preparing before you confirm the hire. List each item with a short description, its approximate dimensions and, if relevant, a note of its condition at the start of the journey, particularly for second-hand furniture or borrowed equipment. Group the list by destination if the load serves several addresses, and keep a copy to hand so you can tick items off as they are handed over. When you contact the team about dates and vehicle options, this inventory helps you describe the job clearly, whether it points towards a small van, a Luton or something between. You might also ask which details the team needs for a quote and whether anything on your list raises further questions.
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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.