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.
Noting Down What You Plan to Move
Before you ring for a quote, it helps to have a written list of everything you expect to move. Note each item's approximate dimensions, particularly for furniture, along with how many bags or boxes you expect, and whether anything is awkwardly shaped. If your dates are flexible, write down the earliest and latest days that would work, since availability can vary across the week. You might also record who will be present at each end of the hire and a contact number for anyone receiving a delivery. Where a collection is involved, keep the seller's details to hand. With this information written down, you can ask specific questions about which van option suits your list and whether the dates you have in mind are workable.
Planning a Household Move on Paper
A household move usually benefits from having the sequence planned on paper before the van is booked. Start by sorting your belongings into what travels on the day, what goes to storage and what is being left behind or sold. Write down the number of rooms, roughly how many boxes each will produce and any large pieces such as wardrobes or white goods. If friends are helping, agree times with them early and note who has keys to the new address. You could also list the items you will need first on arrival, so they can be identified at the other end. Any questions about van size, hire duration or collection arrangements can then be raised when you request 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.