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.
Agreeing Roles with Your Helpers
Who is actually going to be there on the day? Fixing that question early gives your whole plan its shape. Confirm each helper before you finalise the hire, then jot down when they can arrive, what role they will take on and a phone number for keeping in touch. Friends lending a hand with a house move might only be free for part of the day, so note their start and finish times and arrange the itinerary around those hours. For trade work, list which colleagues need to travel with the tools and whether any equipment belongs to them personally rather than the business. Where a helper is meeting you partway, record the collection point too. Passing these details on when you ask about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available helps the team picture the job.
Recording Dimensions of Large Items
Measuring oversized pieces before you request a quote is worth the few minutes it takes. Write down the height, width and depth of furniture such as wardrobes, sofas or dining tables, and note whether legs, doors or handles can be removed. For appliances like fridges or washing machines, capture the dimensions along with any packaging they will keep. A photograph of each item beside a tape measure gives the team a visual reference to work from. Add the number of boxes and their approximate sizes to the same list, and include awkward pieces such as ladders or rolled carpets. When you tell us what you need to carry, the access arrangements and the hire dates, these recorded figures help the team discuss the vehicle options for 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.