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.
Writing Down a Full Load Inventory
Begin with a list of everything you plan to move. Work through the house, workshop or office room by room and note each item, from single armchairs to stacks of cartons, adding a count where several are identical. Beside every entry, jot down approximate dimensions for the larger pieces and a note of anything that dismantles. Record access details too, such as whether the van will sit on a drive or the road, and any parking limits at either end. Keep the inventory handy in the weeks before the hire so you can update it as things are packed, sold or given away. When you contact the team, share the finished list, the access arrangements and your dates, and ask which vehicle would suit that inventory.
Sorting Boxes Before the Van Arrives
Boxed belongings deserve their own bit of planning. Decide early what will be boxed and what will travel loose, then label each carton with its room and a short note of contents so you can find things quickly afterwards. Note how many boxes you have filled so far and how many you expect in total, keeping a running tally on paper or your phone. Record any unusually shaped items, such as mirrors, plants or rolled rugs, that will not go in a box. If some boxes hold fragile pieces, mark them clearly and count them separately. When you ask for a quote, give the box totals, the loose items, the access arrangements and the hire dates, and raise any questions you still have about vehicle choice for that load.
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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.