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.
Getting your helpers organised early
Who is actually free on the day? Settling that question first makes everything else simpler. Build a short roster showing who can arrive at the start, who can only spare an hour, and who might drop out if timings shift, then share the hire dates with everyone before you confirm them. It is also worth recording a mobile number for each person so last-minute changes reach everyone at once. If somebody else is meeting you at the other end, perhaps at a storage unit or a delivery address, note their name and contact details too, along with the access arrangements you have agreed with them. When you request a quote, you can pass all of this on and ask which van option the team would suggest for the plan.
Recording the size of bulky items
Before enquiring, measure the items that will travel in the van and write each set of dimensions down, including height, width and depth, plus anything that does not fold or come apart. A three-seat sofa, a wardrobe with a fixed cornice or a workbench bolted together will each need noting separately, and photographs taken on your phone can be useful when describing them over the phone or by email. Record the quantity of smaller pieces as well, such as boxes or bags, since the total matters alongside the largest single item. When you ask for a quote, share the full list and ask whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van would suit, and what access information the team needs from you.
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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.