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.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
Start by writing down the hire dates alongside the times you expect to pack, collect and drop off. If packing will happen across several evenings, note when each session might finish and whether the van is needed on all of those days or only at the end. Think about whether anyone is helping you and when they are free, since their availability may shape the schedule. Record the address for each collection or delivery stop, together with a contact name and number at every one. Where a recipient is expecting goods, ask them what time suits them and note their answer. Any gaps in the timetable can then be raised with the team when you discuss your booking.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
Rather than relying on memory, draft an inventory of everything going into the van. List furniture, boxes, appliances and loose items separately, and add rough dimensions or a note on shape for anything awkward. Photographing bulky pieces can help you describe them later when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Count the boxes as you pack and update the list if plans change, since an accurate tally gives the team something concrete to work from. Mark which items belong to which stop if several deliveries are involved. If you are unsure whether your list is complete, hold the enquiry until you have checked every room.
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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.