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.
Recording Your Boxes Before Enquiring
Start your move preparations by writing an inventory of the boxed belongings you intend to transport. Count the boxes room by room, note their approximate sizes, and mark any that contain fragile items so you can describe them accurately. Alongside the boxes, list furniture and other loose pieces, recording dimensions for the largest ones. If the load is split between a new home and a storage unit, divide your list into two columns and note which items belong where. Where a friend or business is receiving goods, add their contact number beside the relevant entries. This paperwork gives the team a clear picture of what needs carrying, and it opens a conversation about van options, access arrangements and the dates that suit you.
Keeping a Load Inventory Handy
A load inventory is slightly different from a packing list: it is the working record you keep throughout the job. Prepare it before the van arrives, listing every box with a brief description and a number, perhaps written on the box itself and on your sheet. As plans develop, note which items are prioritised for the first trip and which can wait if you are spreading the move over several runs. Record the recipient details for anything being delivered to another party, and keep a separate tally for items collected from shops or storage along the way. If anything changes, amend the list rather than relying on memory. When you contact the team about a dropside, crew van or another option, this inventory supports a clearer conversation about what you need to carry and when.
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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.