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.
Getting helper availability down in writing
Who has actually confirmed they can help, and for how long? Before settling the hire dates, send round a message to everyone you are counting on and record their answers, including arrival times and how long each person can stay. If some helpers are only available for part of the day, note the windows so your own schedule can reflect them. It also helps to write down who will be present at each address, whether that is a collection point, a storage facility or a final destination, along with any contact numbers for people meeting you there. When you contact the team for a quote, you can mention how many people the schedule depends on, and ask any questions you still have about the dates or vehicle options.
Recording hobby equipment before booking
What exactly are you transporting, and have you measured any of it? Hobby gear often comes in odd shapes, from folded canoes to instrument cases and boxed model kits, so a written list with dimensions is worth preparing before you enquire. Note the longest items separately, along with anything that cannot be dismantled, and record whether any pieces come in bags or soft cases rather than boxes. If the equipment belongs to a club or another person, keep a note of whose items are whose, which helps if the load is split across stops. Where a measurement is a guess, mark it as approximate. These notes let the team consider your request with real figures, and any questions about vehicle suitability can be asked openly at the quote stage.
Explore other van hire areas
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.