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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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 choice to settle is whether the job is a single run or a series of them. If everything is needed at one address by a set time, a single trip may shape the whole plan; if items are going to several places, or some can wait a week, splitting the work changes what you ask for. Write down each candidate load with its destination, a contact name and number there, and the date it is needed. Note any items that could move on a later run if the first one fills up. Compare your list against the hire window you have in mind, including spare days. When you enquire, the team can look at what you plan to carry and the dates involved, and help match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Recording Where Everything Should Go
A clear record of destination details saves confusion on the day, so note where each item is going well in advance. Label every box and piece of furniture with the room or person it belongs to, and keep a written list that pairs each label with its delivery address and a contact number for whoever is receiving it. If some things are going into storage, record the unit reference and the site's opening hours. For items being delivered to a third party, such as a buyer from an online listing, note their phone number and any agreed time window. Mark anything that must not be separated from its fixings or instructions. This kind of list answers questions on the day without a phone call, and if a recipient is not expecting you, the notes tell you exactly who to ring before setting off.
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Things to check before booking
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.