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.
Building a Written Box Inventory
Before anything is packed, start a room-by-room list of the boxes you expect, noting the number per room and any items that will travel loose. Measure the big pieces, such as beds, wardrobes and white goods, and record those dimensions separately, since they often decide the discussion about vehicle size. Mark which boxes contain fragile items or documents you need quick access to, and note anything destined for storage rather than the new address. A total count of boxes, bags and furniture gives you a clear figure to quote when describing the job. Keep the inventory on your phone or a clipboard so it survives the day, and update it if plans change before the hire date arrives.
Arranging Helpers and Their Details
Once the inventory exists, turn to the people involved. List each helper by name, with a mobile number, and note the hours they can commit, since someone available only in the morning changes the shape of the day. Agree roles in advance on paper: who holds the door, who checks items against the inventory, and who speaks with the storage site or the seller during a furniture collection. Record a backup contact in case someone drops out, and share the full list with the group so everybody knows the plan. If helpers are meeting you at the destination rather than the start, note their expected arrival times too, and add any questions you still want to ask before confirming the hire.
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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.