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.
Building a Load Inventory Early
A written inventory is the single most useful document you can prepare before hiring a van. Walk through each room or workspace and list every item you plan to move, from large furniture to boxes and loose equipment. Beside each entry, note whether it is fragile, dismantled or an awkward shape, and record approximate dimensions for the biggest pieces. Group the list by destination if some items are heading to storage and others to a new address. Keep the inventory with your hire dates and contact numbers, and bring it up when you request a quote, since it lets the team consider the right van category. Any items you are still deciding about should be marked as possible additions rather than left off entirely.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
How long will packing genuinely take? Few people allow enough, so it is worth sketching a schedule before you confirm your dates. Work backwards from the day of the move and note when each area will be packed, leaving room for tasks that always run long, such as clearing a loft or a garage. Record your preferred hire window and a backup in case packing overruns, and note the contact details for anyone at either property who controls access. Write down questions about extending the hire or adjusting collection times in case your schedule shifts. If friends or colleagues are helping, list who is available on which day. Presenting this timeline with your enquiry keeps the whole arrangement easier to discuss.
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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.