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.
Recording Your Boxed Belongings
Start with a written list of every box you intend to move, numbered and labelled by the room it came from. Note the approximate size of each one, whether it holds fragile items, and any that are unusually shaped or wrapped separately from the rest. If you still have the original packaging for appliances or electronics, record those pieces individually rather than grouping them with general boxes. Count the total before you call, because an accurate figure helps the team match the job to the right van type. Photograph the stack once packed if that helps you remember the volume. Keep the list handy on moving day so you can tick items off as they reach the destination, and note anything you decide to leave behind, since a revised count may change the vehicle you need for the dates you have in mind.
Coordinating People to Help
If friends or family have offered to assist, note their names, availability and contact numbers in one place rather than relying on messages scattered across different apps. Ask each person when they can start and roughly how long they can stay, then build your schedule around those answers. Record who has agreed to travel with the van, who is meeting you at the other end, and who is looking after children or pets during the move. Share the hire dates with everyone once confirmed so nobody assumes a different day. It is also sensible to collect a spare contact number for at least one helper in case plans change on the day. When you request a quote, mention how many people need to travel with the load, since that can affect whether a crew van is the more suitable option for your booking.
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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.