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 Your Boxed Belongings Room by Room
Start with a written inventory before anything else. Note every box, its destination room and a short description of the contents, then number the boxes so the list and the labels match. Record approximate dimensions for the largest cartons and any awkward items such as rolled carpets or flat-pack wardrobes. If some boxes go to storage and others to a new address, split the list by destination and add the opening hours for each. Where someone receives goods on your behalf, write their name and a phone number beside the relevant entries. When you contact the team for a quote, send the inventory, the access arrangements and your dates, then ask whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available.
Recording Where Each Box Should End Up
A second list, kept separate from the inventory, can record where each numbered box should end up. Mark the cartons you will want first, such as kettle, bedding or tools, so they stand out on paper even if the day turns busy. If the destination is a flat, a relative's house or a unit with limited access, note the questions you need to put to the contact there, from parking arrangements to lift availability, since only they can answer those. Add names and numbers for anyone accepting delivery on the day. For your quote, include the hire dates, the full item list with dimensions, and ask which vehicle options the team can offer for those dates.
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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.