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.
What to write down before packing day
Before packing begins, the most useful thing you can prepare is a written inventory. List each item you intend to move, from boxes and furniture to tools and materials, and note approximate dimensions for anything bulky. Add the hire dates, the address you are collecting from and the destination, plus a contact name and number at each end if someone else will be there. If access involves gates, narrow lanes or shared driveways, describe the arrangements in your notes so the team understands the setting. You can also record how much time you expect to spend on each stage of the day, which helps when discussing hire length. Any gaps in this information are worth flagging when you ask for a quote.
Comparing one journey with several trips
Would a single journey suit the job, or could the work spread across two? Comparing the options becomes more concrete once you have numbers on paper: the total volume of items, the hours available and the number of people involved. One longer hire might cover a full house move in a day, while a shorter booking could handle a furniture collection now and a storage run next week. Write down what each option would involve, including any second collection address, and use the list when you speak to the team. Questions about which van size matches your inventory can be asked at the same time, and the team can suggest options once they have the details. If your dates are flexible, mention that too, since it may shape what the team suggests.
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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.