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.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
If you are planning the unloading order, begin by writing a list of every item in the order you expect to remove it at the destination. Note which pieces belong to which room or address, and mark any items that need particular care when they are handled at the far end. Record a name and contact number for whoever is receiving the goods, and confirm the arrival time window with them before you set off. If several households or jobs share the van, label each entry so nothing is handed to the wrong person. Keep the list with your hire dates and access arrangements, and raise any questions about the vehicle choice or delivery details when you request a quote.
Recording What You Need to Carry
Rather than worrying about the order things go into the van, focus on building a clear written inventory before the hire starts. List every item by name, note its dimensions, and mark anything that is fragile or unusually shaped. Count the bags, boxes and loose pieces separately, and record who each item belongs to if several households or jobs share the van. If some goods are going to different addresses, write those addresses and the recipient contact details next to the relevant entries. This record helps you discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job. Any gaps in your list, such as an unmeasured wardrobe, can be flagged as open questions when you ask for a quote.
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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.