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 a load list that works
Start with what you plan to put in the van: a written inventory is the most useful thing you can prepare. List each item, from furniture and boxes to tools and equipment, and note approximate dimensions for anything bulky, such as a sofa, wardrobe or workbench. Recording quantities matters too, so ten boxes rather than simply boxes. If some items might be left behind, mark which ones are essential and which could travel another day. This list helps you describe the job clearly when you contact the team, and it gives you a reference point if you need to check whether a small van, Transit, Luton or another option suits the work you have in mind.
Noting the order you want things out
Which items will you need first when the van is emptied? Thinking about unloading before you set off can shape how you record your inventory. Some customers label boxes by destination room or by delivery stop, which keeps the list useful on the day. If your job involves several drops, noting the sequence of addresses and any recipient contact details against each one gives you a clear schedule to follow. Where access is tight, wide or restricted, the property or site contact is the person to ask about parking and entry arrangements. Keeping these notes together means questions about the hire dates and vehicle match can be settled quickly when you get in touch.
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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.