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.
Noting Entrances and Item Sizes
Which dimensions matter most when you are describing a job? Start with the biggest items: measure their height, width and depth, and note whether wardrobes, bed frames or shelving can be taken apart before the van arrives. Then consider the spaces the load must pass through. Record the clear width and height of doorways, garden gates, stairwells or corridors at both ends of the journey, and mention any steps, slopes or narrow lanes on the approach. If you are unsure whether a piece fits through a gap, write down both figures and flag the uncertainty when you ask for a quote. Keeping a simple list of these numbers means the team can respond to your enquiry without a long exchange of follow-up questions.
Thinking Through the Unloading Order
Is it worth deciding in advance which items will be needed first at the destination? A short written sequence can settle that question before the day. List what you want immediate access to on arrival, such as tools for a first job, bedding if you are staying the night, or boxes containing essentials, and mark them clearly. Note which pieces are destined for each room or site so nothing has to be re-sorted at the door. If the delivery involves more than one address, record the order of stops and the contact name at each one. Where the sequence depends on another person's preference, ask them beforehand rather than guessing. Sharing your intended order with the team when confirming hire dates keeps everyone working from the same outline.
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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.