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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Building a Simple Load List
Write out a list of everything going on the van before you pick up the phone. Group it into furniture, boxes, appliances and anything loose or awkward, and put a number beside each group so the totals are easy to read out. If certain items are going to different addresses, mark them clearly. Where a piece can be dismantled, note that next to it, along with whether you plan to take it apart before the hire date. A list drafted a few days ahead gives you time to remember the things in the loft or garage. When you enquire, read through it and ask whether any entry needs more detail, and keep the list handy in case the team asks follow-up questions about particular items.
Noting the Order Things Come Off
Alongside what is going on, it helps to record where each item is headed and in what sequence the drop-offs sit in your day. If you are stopping at a storage unit, a relative's house and a tip run, write those stops in order with a note of which items belong at each. Add the contact number for anyone receiving goods at an intermediate stop, in case plans shift on the day. Questions about a destination's gates, opening hours or parking arrangements should go to the people at that address, so ring them ahead and note their answers. You might ask the hire team whether the number of stops affects anything they need to confirm, and note the answer. Keeping drop-off details on one sheet avoids relying on memory.
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Last checks before booking
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.