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.
Planning the Order of Your Drop-Offs
If your job involves delivering items to more than one address, it can help to sketch the running order of those stops before you make an enquiry. Note where each piece is destined, along with the name and telephone number of the person expecting it, so you can confirm arrival windows with them directly. Record which items belong to which recipient, perhaps with simple labels, and keep a note of anything that must be handed over personally. Where a stop has particular opening times, add that to your notes as well. When you get in touch, you might ask how flexible the return time would be if your final drop runs behind schedule.
Allowing Time for Packing and Preparation
Should your moving date be fixed, try working backwards from it when planning the hire period. List each room or job, estimate how long the wrapping, boxing and dismantling could take, and note any furniture needing attention before collection. Keeping a running count of boxes, bags and loose items as you go gives you a total to quote when you call. If you suspect the packing might spill into a second day, it is worth asking whether an overnight hire is possible and what that would involve. You could also confirm collection and return times, and raise any questions you have about access at both ends of the journey.
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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.