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.
Preparing your boxed belongings for collection
Begin by writing an inventory of every box you plan to move, numbered and labelled by the room it belongs to. Note anything fragile on the list so it is visible when you discuss the job, and record roughly how many boxes of each size you have. If some items are going to storage and others to a new address, split the list accordingly, since two destinations may affect how you plan the day. Keep a copy of the inventory on your phone as well as on paper, and consider photographing the state of valuable items before they are packed. When you contact the hire team, the number of boxes, their general size and the destinations involved all help the conversation about which van might be suitable. A clear list also gives you something to check against when everything arrives.
Keeping a load inventory that works
An inventory is only useful if you keep it current, so decide on a simple system and stick to it. Some people use a numbered list with a tick column; others photograph each box next to its label before it leaves the room. Whichever method you choose, note the contents or the room name on every entry, and mark boxes that contain items you will need first, such as kettle, tools or bedding. If friends are helping, give one person responsibility for updating the list as items are gathered, so nothing is recorded twice or missed entirely. Record any items that stay behind as well, which prevents confusion at the other end. Sharing the finished inventory with the hire team alongside your dates and access notes helps them discuss the right vehicle for the job.
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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.