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.
Coordinating helpers before the van arrives
Who is actually going to be there on the day? Settling that question early makes everything else simpler. Confirm which friends or colleagues can attend, note their availability across the hire dates, and agree a meeting time at the collection point or property. Share a list of the items being moved, with dimensions for anything bulky, so helpers know what to expect. Keep a page of mobile numbers for everyone involved, plus contacts at the destination in case access questions arise. If paperwork at handover needs a named person, decide who that is in advance. A quick group message the evening before, covering times, addresses and the running order, gives every helper the same picture and reduces the number of phone calls on the day itself.
Recording your boxed belongings clearly
If most of your possessions are going into boxes, a written inventory is the single most useful thing you can prepare. Number each box, note its contents and its destination room, and record roughly how many boxes exist in total. Measure or estimate the dimensions of the larger ones, and set aside a separate list for unboxed items such as lamps, tools or appliances. This record helps the team consider which vehicle group suits the load, and it gives you something to check against when everything arrives. Note the hire dates and how many trips you anticipate, and keep recipient contact details for the delivery end. Keeping the inventory accurate on the day also saves time matching boxes to rooms at the other end.
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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.