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.
Recording What You Need to Move
If a house move or a large furniture collection is on the cards, the first job is simply to write down everything that needs to travel. Rather than thinking about the order in which items will come out at the far end, focus on building a clear list: each piece of furniture, every box, and anything awkward such as a wardrobe mirror or a rolled rug. Note approximate dimensions for the bulkier pieces and the approximate number of boxes, since this information helps the team suggest whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van fits the job where available. You can also record the access arrangements at both ends, including any gates, narrow lanes or parking limits that the destination contact can confirm for you. With the list and dimensions noted, the remaining questions are the hire dates and the quoted price.
Comparing One Trip with Several
Where a job involves several addresses, it can be worth sketching out whether one longer outing or a few shorter ones suits your week better. Write down each stop, what needs collecting or dropping at each one, and the contact details for whoever will receive items, so you can ring ahead if timings slip. A single trip might appeal if everything is ready on the same day, while separate runs could work if some items are not yet packed or if one address is only available at certain hours. Neither choice is automatically the right one; it depends on your dates, your list and how the destinations respond when you ask about access. Once you have compared the options on paper, you can raise the open questions with the team, including which vehicle group matches the combined load and what the hire would cost.
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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.