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.
Recording Every Item on the Manifest
Grab a notebook and list each item you plan to move, one line at a time. Note the number of boxes, the dimensions of any furniture, and anything unusually long or wide that could affect vehicle choice. Record which items belong to which room or address, particularly if you are delivering to several recipients, and write down their names and phone numbers so you can coordinate on the day. Flag anything fragile or awkwardly shaped, and mark items you are still unsure about, since these can be discussed with the team before booking. If goods are coming from a storage unit or shop, note the expected collection window. Keep the manifest with your hire paperwork, update it if plans change, and use it to frame any questions about vehicle groups or dates when you ask for a quote.
Organising a Move of Boxed Belongings
Boxed items reward a little advance planning. Count how many boxes you have, estimate their sizes, and note which rooms they came from so you can deliver them to the right places at the other end. If boxes are going to more than one address, write down the order of visits and who will receive each batch, including contact details in case a doorstep is unattended. Consider which boxes need to arrive first, perhaps kitchen essentials or children's belongings, and note that priority on your list. Record any boxes containing fragile goods so they are identifiable, and think about whether you will need to collect more boxes or packing materials before the hire date. These notes give the team a clear picture of the job and give you concrete questions to ask about vehicle options and timing when you confirm the booking.
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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.