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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Which numbers do you need before requesting a quote? Measure the largest items first, noting length, width and height, and pay particular attention to anything rigid or irregular that cannot be angled through a gap. Then record the width and height of gates, doorways and passages at each address the job involves. If you are unsure about access at a destination you do not control, a question to the contact there resolves it directly. Written figures are easier to check than memory, and they let the team discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches the job. Any measurement you cannot pin down is simply an open item to resolve before the hire dates arrive.
Coordinating Helpers
Who is helping on the day, and what should they know? Make a list of everyone involved, with their arrival times and mobile numbers, so you can see at a glance whether the people and the schedule line up. If helpers are only free for part of the day, note the hours they can commit and plan the sequence of tasks around that information. Record the hire dates and any access windows, such as collection slots or site opening hours, and share them with everyone involved. Questions that may still be open include whether any helper has specific skills or equipment needs, and who holds keys for each address. Passing this schedule to the team alongside your load list keeps the booking discussion clear.
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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.