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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Recording the order of deliveries
If your trip involves several stops, it is worth writing down the sequence before you enquire. Suppose you are dropping a sofa at one address, a wardrobe at another and returning the remaining boxes to storage: note each destination, the items assigned to it, and a contact name and number for whoever is receiving them. Recording the order lets you see the shape of the day, and it gives the team something concrete to consider when you ask about a dropside or crew van. You might also list which items are needed urgently at the first stop, in case the schedule has to change. Questions about access, gates or parking at each address belong with the contacts there, so note any queries you want to put to them yourself.
Writing a load inventory that helps
An inventory prepared in advance makes the whole enquiry more straightforward. Go room by room or job by job and list every item you intend to move, grouping smaller things into labelled boxes where you can. Note dimensions for anything oversized, mark pieces that come apart, and flag items you are unsure about so the team can advise. If friends or customers are receiving goods, add their details beside the relevant entries, and keep the whole list somewhere you can reach it while making calls. When you contact the team, you can read out or send the inventory, ask how it maps onto the van options available, and double-check that the hire dates you have pencilled in still work. Anything you forget to list can be added with a quick follow-up.
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Things to check before booking
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.