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.
Listing hobby equipment before you book
Start by deciding which dates would suit, and whether you need the van for a single day or longer. Next, write an inventory of everything you plan to move: marquees, model aircraft, kayaks, tools or exhibition stands, for example. Note the longest and widest item, since that measurement often shapes the vehicle choice more than the number of pieces. Photograph anything unusually shaped and record whether it dismantles. If some gear belongs to a club or a friend, agree who supplies covers or padding, and note anything you cannot take apart. When you ask for a quote, share the full list plus your dates and collection addresses, and ask which further details the team needs from you.
Recording destination details for the day
If the trip involves several stops, sketch the running order on paper before you call. Jot down each address, a named contact and a mobile number, plus the hours when someone will actually be there to receive items. Mark which boxes or pieces belong at each stop so nothing is left at the wrong place. Where a venue has its own rules about arrival windows or parking, those questions belong to the venue, so ring ahead and note the answers. You might also record any time you must finish by, such as a hall closing at midday. When you speak to the hire team, share the outline so they can note the running order, and ask which parts of the booking still need confirming.
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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.