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 on Moving Day
Who is actually going to be there? That is the first thing to settle when a van job involves more than one pair of hands. Make a list of everyone who has agreed to help, with the time each person plans to arrive and how long they can stay, since a helper who can only spare an hour changes your schedule. If some helpers are meeting you at the other end, ask for their numbers and agree how you will confirm the timing once you are underway. Note down which tasks each person has taken on, from minding boxes at the pavement to signing for items at a storage unit. Where a third party is involved, such as a seller releasing furniture, record their contact details and the agreed collection window so nobody is left waiting around.
Moving Boxed Belongings
How many boxes are you actually moving? Counting them before you enquire gives you a concrete figure to work from. Note the approximate size of each box, or group them into small, medium and large if exact measurements feel excessive, and flag anything unusually shaped that will not sit flat. If some items are going to different addresses, list which boxes belong where, along with the recipient's name and phone number for each drop-off. Confirming arrival windows with those recipients in advance is worth doing, and keep their details to hand on the day. When you speak to the team, describe the total quantity and the sizes rather than guessing at a van category, and ask which option they would suggest for the load as you have described it.
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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.