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.
One Trip or Several: Weighing It Up
The first decision many hirers face is whether the whole job can be handled in a single outing or split across several. Start by listing everything that needs to move, along with approximate dimensions for the larger pieces, and note any items that could travel separately if needed. From there, consider whether one longer booking with a larger option, such as a Luton or dropside, fits the plan, or whether a small van or Transit over a couple of shorter hires suits better. Record the hire dates you have in mind for each possibility, plus the access arrangements at every address involved. When you contact the team, ask which vehicle they would match to your list and whether availability on your preferred days might influence the choice between one trip and several.
Recording What Goes Where
Whatever pattern of trips you settle on, a written record of the delivery details keeps everyone on the same page. Prepare a simple list naming each item, its rough size and the address it is heading to, which is especially useful for house moves and furniture collections. If goods are going to different addresses, note the recipient's name and contact number beside each entry, along with any time windows they have mentioned. For storage runs, mark which items are going into storage and which are coming out. Questions you might raise with the team include whether your list suggests a crew van, with its extra seating, or whether a standard option covers the job. Keep the list handy throughout the hire.
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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.