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.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
The first decision is which pieces of hobby equipment actually need to travel with you. Write an inventory that covers each item by name, from model railway boards and canvas frames through to bicycles, kayaks or palettes of pottery, and note the approximate length, width and height of the awkward ones. Record whether anything is unusually shaped or comes apart into smaller sections, since the team will want to know either way. Note the dates you have in mind and where the equipment is heading, along with a contact name and number at the receiving end. When you ask for a quote, this list lets the team match your load to a suitable van and confirm what is available.
Planning the Unloading Order
Before the van arrives, write out the sequence of stops and what is destined for each. Record the address and contact number for every recipient, and note any time windows or access details they have given you, including whether there is a loading area or a shared driveway. Keep the destination contacts' details to hand in case timings shift, and note who will take charge of the items at each address. It is also worth listing anything the recipients have told you about the site, such as where the van can wait while things are handed over. Questions you might put to the team include how long the hire should run to cover all your stops, and which van options they would suggest for a job involving several destinations.
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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.