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 a list of boxed items
Begin with a written list of every box you plan to move, noting what each one contains and which room it belongs to at the destination. Number the boxes and keep the list on your phone so you can tick them off during the day. Mark anything fragile, and set aside a separate box of items you will need straightaway, such as kettle, tools or documents. Record the full delivery address, the name and number of whoever is receiving the boxes, and any access arrangements you already know about. If some boxes are going to storage instead, note the facility's hours. When you ask for a quote, give the approximate box count and the hire dates so the team can suggest a suitable van.
Measuring bulky items before you book
Before choosing a van, measure the largest items you need to move and write the dimensions down. For furniture, record height, width and depth at the widest point, and note whether anything comes apart, such as legs that unscrew or a bed frame that separates into sections. List appliances separately with their sizes, and check whether doors or panels can be removed if you are unsure they will go through hallways. Keep this list with your access notes and the hire dates so it is ready when you contact the team. Sharing accurate measurements with your quote request lets the team advise whether a small van, Transit, Luton or dropside matches the job, and highlights anything you may need to reconsider.
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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.