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.
Coordinating helpers before the day
Who can commit to helping, and when? Building a clear list of helpers well ahead of the hire keeps the whole job organised. Write down each person's name, phone number and the hours they are free across your dates, and note whether anyone can only come in the morning or afternoon. If helpers hold keys to a property or storage unit involved, mark that against their name. You might also record who will act as the main contact if plans change at short notice, so messages reach one person rather than everyone at once. Once the list is complete, share it with the group and ask for confirmation. Questions such as whether a crew van suits a larger team, or which vehicle matches your load, can be raised with the team when you request a quote.
Measuring items and checking entrances
Do you know the dimensions of everything going in the van? Measuring before you enquire makes the vehicle choice far clearer. Note the height, width and length of the largest pieces, plus the quantity of boxes or smaller items, and keep that list with your hire notes. If furniture has removable parts, record the measurements both ways, since that may influence what fits on paper. Entrance checks are just as important: note the widths of doorways, gates or corridors at both ends of the journey, and confirm any access restrictions with the contact at each property rather than assuming. When you ask for a quote, send the team your measurements and dates together, and raise any remaining questions about matching the job to a small van, Transit or Luton.
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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.