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.
Deciding Between One Journey and More
The first question worth settling is whether the whole job can be done in one outing or whether a series of shorter trips fits the dates better. Draft a complete inventory of what needs to move, with quantities and rough sizes, and set it against your proposed hire period. Items that are not urgently needed could travel on a later date, while anything fragile or time-sensitive might belong in the first run. Consider the access arrangements at both ends, including who will be present to receive deliveries on each occasion, and note any times when the destination contact is unavailable. Record how many helpers you can rely on for each leg, since that may influence whether you combine loads or spread them out.
Planning a Hobby Equipment Run
Transporting hobby gear works best when you have written the details down before the hire begins. Make a list of every item, from the largest piece of kit to the smallest accessory, and note the length, width and height of anything bulky, including any protective covers or frames that add to the size. Count the smaller pieces and record whether they travel loose or in cases, since that affects how you describe the load. If equipment belongs to several people, note whose is whose and where each item is being dropped off, along with a contact name at each address. Check whether any item can be dismantled before the trip, and write down the size of the parts once separated. When you contact the team, you can then explain what you need to carry, the access arrangements and the hire dates, and ask which van types from the available range they would suggest for the job.
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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.