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.
Recording which items go where
If your job involves several destinations, a simple written plan of which items belong where can settle a lot before the van arrives. List each item or box, note its destination, and add dimensions for anything oversized such as wardrobes or workbenches. If some things head to storage and others to a customer or a skip, mark which is which on your list rather than relying on memory. Recording recipient contact details for each stop is also useful, so whoever is receiving furniture or materials can be called ahead. When you ask for a quote, share the list and the access arrangements at each address, and ask which van sizes the team would consider for the job you have described.
Allowing time for each stage of the job
Time is the other thing worth writing down. If packing is spread over several evenings, note when each part of the job should finish and set the hire dates around that schedule rather than the other way round. Record the hours you expect to spend at each address, any window when someone must be present, and contact numbers for anyone receiving deliveries. If your move or collection depends on other people, such as a seller handing over furniture, note their preferred times too. This record helps you ask sharper questions: whether the van is available for the full period, what the options are if timings need to change, and who to contact if a step overruns. A timeline on paper keeps the day organised.
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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.