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.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
Who will actually be there on the day? Answer that early and the rest of your planning falls into place. Confirm which friends, family members or colleagues can help, note the times each person is free, and share the hire dates as soon as they are settled. Keep a list of mobile numbers so anyone running late can send word, and agree a meeting point if people are arriving separately. If somebody may drop out, think about a standby name now rather than later. You can also decide who will deal with the seller, the storage facility or the receiving business, and record their contact details. Passing all of this to the team with your enquiry keeps everyone working from the same information.
Recording Your Unloading Plan
Before the van sets off, write down what needs to happen at the far end. List your items by room or destination area, and mark anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. Note the dimensions of large pieces and any doorways or corridors they must pass through, since the person receiving them may need that information. If goods are going to several addresses, write each one down with a named contact and phone number. Record any preferences the recipient has mentioned about where items should end up, so you can pass those on. When you request a quote, mention the size of the load and the access at each stop, and raise any question the plan leaves open so the team can respond with facts rather than guesses.
Explore other van hire areas
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.