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.
Planning the Order of Stops
If the day involves picking items up from one address and delivering them to two or three others, sketch the sequence before you book. Write down each stop in order, with the name and number of the person receiving goods at every one, plus a note of what belongs where. You might mark which items are needed first at the far end, or which pieces could be left with a neighbour if a recipient is out. Recording quantities against each stop – four boxes here, one table there – gives you a checklist for the day and material for the team when they match the job to a small van, Transit or Luton. Any stop with restricted access or specific timing can be flagged in the same list, so nothing depends on memory alone.
Noting Entrance and Item Dimensions
Suppose a sofa or wardrobe is on the list. Before the hire, measure the item and the openings it must pass through - doorways, hallways, gates - and write each figure down. Record height, width and depth for large pieces, and note whether legs, doors or handles come off, since that changes the numbers. Ask whoever is receiving an item whether their entrance has any tight corners or narrow passages, and note their answer alongside their contact details. These measurements give the team accurate information to discuss van options for the job, and the team can confirm what is available for your dates. Keep the list handy so every dimension can be double-checked against the plan if anything changes before the hire date.
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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.