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.
Writing Down the Key Job Details
Start with a simple written brief covering everything the team will ask about. List the hire dates, including any flexibility you have, and the full set of items you plan to carry with their approximate dimensions. Note the access arrangements at each end: whether there is parking nearby, whether streets are narrow, and whether anyone must grant entry to a building or site. Record a contact name and number for anyone receiving goods, plus their preferred delivery window if one applies. If the job involves several stops, sketch the order you expect to make them in. With this brief ready, you can request a quote knowing nothing important has been left out, and you will have a document to check against if details change before the hire begins.
Moving Boxed Belongings Without Confusion
Boxed items are simpler to plan when you count them first. Go through each room and tally the boxes you expect, noting any that are unusually large or an awkward shape. Record an approximate size for the biggest boxes, since these often influence which vehicle category makes sense for the job. Keep a numbered list with a short description of each box's contents, which helps at the other end when you or your recipients are checking that everything has arrived. If some boxes are going to different addresses, note the destination beside each number and confirm a contact for each one. Share the total count and dimensions with the team when you enquire, and ask whether anything on your list raises questions about the vehicle options available for your dates.
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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.