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.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Start with a written inventory before anything is packed. List each item, whether a bed frame, boxes of books, chest of drawers or garden tools, and give the boxes numbers rather than vague labels like 'kitchen stuff', writing the contents in a notebook or phone note. Beside each entry, record the room it belongs to at the new address and whether it is fragile. If a friend is helping on the day, share the list with them so everyone can tick items off as they come off the van. Photograph anything valuable and keep the pictures with the inventory. When you contact the team about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, send the list with your dates and access notes so they can consider the job in full.
Recording Rooms and Recipient Details
A room-by-room plan for the destination is just as useful as the inventory itself. Sketch the layout of the new address, or ask the person receiving the goods to describe it, and note which rooms sit furthest from the entrance if that matters to your schedule. Label each box with its destination room so helpers can be told where things belong without a discussion on the doorstep. Record the recipient's name and telephone number, and the details of anyone holding keys. If the move spans several stops, write the order of addresses and what is being delivered to each. Any question about access at the far end should go to the person based there, and open points can be raised with the team when you confirm the hire.
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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.