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.
Moving Boxed Belongings
Start by writing down what you intend to move. A simple list of box numbers, with a note of the largest item's dimensions and roughly how many bags or loose pieces sit outside the boxes, gives you something concrete to discuss. Measure anything awkward, such as a wardrobe or a rolled rug, and record the heaviest single item if you know it. If some boxes are going to different addresses, list each destination with a named contact and their phone number. When you request a quote, you can then ask which van size suits the volume described, whether the dates you prefer are workable, and whether anything on your list needs separate arrangements. Keeping the list to hand avoids guesswork later.
Allowing Time for Packing
How long will packing actually take? If boxes are still being filled when the van arrives, the schedule can slip, so it is worth estimating a realistic window before the hire day. Note when you plan to start, whether helpers are coming, and whether anything still needs dismantling, such as a bed frame or shelving. Record a contact number for anyone at the receiving end, plus the times they expect to be available. You could ask the team whether the hire period can cover a full day rather than a few hours, and what happens if packing overruns. These are open questions worth settling when you first make enquiries, rather than on the day itself.
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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.