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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Keeping a Room-by-Room Load Inventory
Start with a room-by-room inventory of everything you plan to move. Write each item down with a rough count, and note the dimensions of the largest pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas or shelving units. Record whether anything comes apart, and keep the fittings in a labelled bag listed alongside the item they belong to. Add boxes to the list as you pack them, numbering each one so the count can be checked at both ends. If some items are staying behind or going to separate addresses, mark that clearly. Share the finished inventory when you enquire, because it gives the team a clear picture when matching your job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Setting Out a Timetable for the Day
Time is the other thing worth writing down. Estimate how long packing will take, then note when the van is due at each address and whether any time windows apply, such as a storage facility's closing hour or a seller's preferred collection slot. Record who will be present at each end and their phone numbers, so any delay can be passed along quickly. If furniture needs to be dismantled before the van arrives, put that task on the schedule with a named person responsible. Build the hire dates around this timetable rather than the reverse, and tell the team if your window is tight or flexible. They can then discuss vehicle availability and access arrangements against the timings you have set out.
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Things to check 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.