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.
Sorting Out Your Helpers in Advance
Which friends or colleagues can genuinely commit? Begin there, because a van booked around people who cancel is a van booked for the wrong dates. Confirm each helper's availability for the whole day, not just the morning, and note their contact numbers in one place. Decide who meets the van, who travels with it and who waits at the destination, especially if someone there needs to receive or hand over items. Record the name and number of any contact at the far end, and the times they expect to be available. If helpers are only free on certain days, list those dates before you enquire. With this information plus a description of what you need to carry and the access arrangements, the team can help match the job to the right van.
Listing Boxed Belongings Clearly
How many boxes are you really dealing with? A count made on paper beats an estimate made on the day. Go room by room and note the number of boxes packed or expected, along with a rough size for each category. Flag anything fragile or awkwardly shaped, and record the dimensions of larger items such as wardrobes, shelving or white goods, since these often determine the vehicle conversation. Note which items are going to the new address and which are destined for storage, keeping two separate tallies. Add the access arrangements at each end and the dates you have in mind. Supplying this written summary when you ask about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van gives the team a clear basis for matching the job and confirming arrangements.
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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.