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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Start by writing down everything that will travel in the van, room by room or job by job. Note each item's dimensions where you can, including height for wardrobes and length for sofas or lengths of timber, since measurements matter more than rough guesses. Count boxes rather than estimating, and flag anything awkward such as mirrors, tools or fragile pieces. If goods are heading to a storage unit or a customer's address, record the recipient's name and contact number so deliveries do not stall at the door. This inventory becomes the reference you work from on the day and lets you tick items off as they reach each destination. It also gives the team precise information about what you need to carry, helping them match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Planning the Unloading Order
How will you approach the other end of the journey? Before setting out, note where each item is destined: which boxes go to storage, which furniture belongs in which room, and which goods are for which customer if you are making several stops. If someone will receive items at the far end, confirm their contact details and the hours they are available, since a closed door can derail a schedule. Ask the destination contact about access arrangements, such as where a van can pull in, rather than assuming. Record any items that need special attention first, simply so they are easy to identify on arrival. A written unloading plan, kept with your inventory, keeps the day organised and gives helpers and recipients a clear picture of what happens when the van pulls up.
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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.