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
Choose the van around the load. Small vans work well for boxes, tools and light collections. Medium or long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment, while Lutons are better for bulkier house-move items. The available range includes Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB, subject to dates, driver details and availability. The exact make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are confirmed at quote stage, so the vehicle examples should be used as a guide to the type of hire available rather than a guaranteed reservation of a specific model.
Sketching Out Your Unloading Order
If you are delivering items to more than one address, it helps to note the order in which each stop will be reached before you set off. Write down every address, the items belonging to each recipient and a phone number for whoever will receive them. Where a contact might not be at home, ask in advance whether a neighbour can accept the goods or whether the delivery can be rearranged. Recording approximate dimensions for larger pieces, such as wardrobes or rolled carpets, gives you a quick reference if plans change mid-route. You might also note any time windows a recipient has mentioned, plus questions about parking or gate access that the recipient can answer. Keeping this list to hand means you can confirm details on the day without searching through messages.
Keeping a Simple Load Inventory
Before the hire begins, consider drawing up an inventory of everything going into the van. List each item or box, note its rough dimensions, and mark fragile pieces so they are easy to identify later. If you are moving a mixture of furniture and loose boxes, a numbered list with a brief description of each entry can help you check that nothing has been left behind at either end. Photographs of valuable or awkwardly shaped items provide a record you can refer to if a question arises. You may also want to record which room each item came from, which helps when unpacking at the destination. When you request a quote, share this inventory with the team so they can discuss which vehicle suits the volume described.
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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.