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.
Working Out Your Load List First
Suppose you have a flat-full of furniture heading to a new address. Before asking for a quote, it pays to write down every item you intend to move, along with rough dimensions for the larger pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. A simple list of lengths, widths and heights lets you see the total volume you are dealing with. You can also note which items belong to which room, which helps you decide whether everything needs to travel together or whether some pieces can wait. Once you have this information recorded, you can pass it to the team and ask which van groups might suit. The team will then talk through the options and help you weigh up what works for the job you have described.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends or family have offered to assist, it is worth sorting out the practical details before the hire date arrives. You might confirm who is available on which day, swap mobile numbers and agree where everyone should meet. Some people prefer to run a group message so that any changes to the schedule reach everyone at once. You could also ask whether any helper has restrictions on timing, such as needing to leave by a certain hour, so you can plan the day around this. These arrangements are entirely yours to organise, and noting them down keeps the picture clear. When you contact the team for a quote, you can mention the hire dates and access arrangements, and any remaining questions can be raised then.
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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.