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.
Writing down your box inventory
The first details worth writing down are a room-by-room count of the boxes you plan to move, plus a note of what each stack contains. Mark which boxes are needed at the new address straight away and which could wait for a later trip if dates allow. Record any items you would rather keep with you, such as documents or small valuables, so they stay off the list entirely. If some boxes form part of a business delivery, add the recipient's name, address and telephone number so the drop-off can be agreed in advance. Take a photo of the finished list and keep it on your phone. Any open questions about van sizes or hire dates can then be raised with the team when you enquire.
Measuring bulky items before you book
A tape measure settles most questions about bulky furniture before anyone books anything. Note the height, width and depth of each large piece, including any parts that stick out, and whether legs, doors or handles can be removed if that is relevant to your move. Write the figures next to the item name on your inventory, and add the number of people who will be around on the day to help. If a wardrobe or sofa is going to a second address, record the recipient's contact details too. Take photos from a couple of angles, since these often clarify a written dimension. Anything still uncertain, such as which van size to request or which dates work, can be put to the team as part of your enquiry.
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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.