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.
Deciding what hobby equipment to take
Before you request a quote, it helps to settle which pieces of hobby equipment are coming along and which can stay behind. If you are moving a model railway layout, a set of kayaks or a workshop's worth of tools, note the longest, widest and tallest items with a tape measure rather than estimating. Record whether anything dismantles into smaller parts, and whether any piece is awkwardly shaped rather than simply heavy. Once you have those dimensions and a rough count of boxes, bins and loose accessories, you can pass them on when you enquire. The team can then talk through which van options might suit, and you can ask whether the dates you have in mind would work before committing to anything.
Keeping a clear load inventory
A written inventory is one of the most useful things you can prepare ahead of a hire. List each item, give it a short description, and note where it is going if the trip involves more than one stop or delivery address. If a friend is receiving furniture at the far end, add their name and phone number so whoever completes the delivery can confirm arrival times directly with them. Photographing items before they travel is another habit worth considering, since it gives you a record to compare against later. When you contact the team, you can attach or read out this list, ask how the inventory affects the vehicle options, and raise any question about access at each address. An accurate inventory also makes it easier to spot if something has been missed.
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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.