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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Book
Before contacting the team, write down what you plan to move in boxes. Note the approximate number of boxes, whether any are unusually shaped, and whether they contain fragile items that need noting on your own list. If the boxes are going into storage, record the storage unit number and the opening arrangements. If some boxes will travel on a different day or with a different person, mark those separately so you can describe the job clearly. Questions worth asking include whether a small van or a Transit suits a given number of boxes, whether a crew van is needed if someone is helping, and what the hire dates and access arrangements should look like on the booking. A written list also helps you spot anything missed.
Measuring Bulky Items for the Job
Which items will not fit in a standard box, and do you know their dimensions? For furniture, appliances or anything else that is bulky, measure the length, width and height, and write each measurement next to the item on your list. If something can be separated into parts, note that too, along with whether the parts come apart easily or need tools you will bring yourself. Record where each bulky item is going, including a recipient name and contact number if someone will receive it. When you ask for a quote, you can then check whether a Luton or dropside is available for the dates you want and whether the dimensions you have noted suit the vehicle. Anything you cannot measure precisely is worth flagging early.
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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.