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.
Comparing one trip with several
Your first decision is often whether to plan a single outing or spread the work over more than one. If you are collecting items from different addresses, note each one, what is being picked up at each and roughly how much space it might take, including the dimensions of anything large such as a wardrobe or a stack of flat-packed boxes. Compare that against how many days you could realistically set aside, and whether any collection point has a deadline, such as a seller expecting pickup by a certain date. Sometimes one longer day suits the items involved; other times splitting the work keeps each part of the plan manageable. Writing both options side by side, with the items and dates listed under each, lets you raise the comparison with the team when asking for a quote.
Organising a household move
A household move usually rewards a written list started well before the van is booked. Begin by noting each room and the items you intend to take, marking anything that needs measuring, such as sofas, mattresses, dining tables or shelving, so you can pass the figures on when you contact the team. Record the dates you are considering, the address you are moving from and the one you are moving to, plus a contact number for each end if someone else will be there. If friends are helping on the day, note their names, the times they have offered and any restrictions on how long they can stay. Keeping the inventory, dates and contacts together means you can answer questions about the job quickly and adjust the plan if anything changes before the move.
Explore other van hire areas
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.