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.
Picking a suitable van
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 for the Day
Who will actually be present when the van is in use? That is the first question worth settling before you request a quote. If friends or colleagues are helping, note their names, mobile numbers and the hours they can commit, then share the planned start time so everyone works from the same schedule. For furniture collections or deliveries to a third party, record the contact details of the person at the far end, including how they prefer to be reached on the day. If a helper may drop out, decide in advance whether the job still proceeds or waits. You might also confirm whether anyone helping needs to travel in the van, since that can influence whether a crew van is the right match. Keep the list of people and their availability alongside your hire dates.
Recording What You Need to Move
A written inventory turns a vague job into something you can discuss with the team in concrete terms. List each item with its approximate dimensions, so a wardrobe, a stack of boxes and a two-seat sofa each appear as separate entries rather than a single guess. Note the total number of pieces, any fragile goods, and whether anything needs to travel to more than one address. If you are collecting from a seller or a storage facility, add their opening hours and the name to ask for on arrival. When you request a quote, share this list and the access arrangements, then ask which van type they would suggest given the sizes involved. Any gaps in your measurements are worth filling before booking so the match is based on facts.
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Last checks before booking
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.