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.
Writing a Load Inventory
What exactly is going on the van? An itemised list gives you and the team a shared picture of the job. Work through each room and record furniture, boxes and any garden or garage items, noting approximate dimensions for anything long, tall or wide. Estimate the number of boxes and bags, and flag pieces that can be dismantled if you plan to take them apart. If the load splits between a new home and a storage unit, keep those as two separate lists. Note the hire dates alongside the inventory, plus the access arrangements at each end, since these affect the match between job and van. Any items you are unsure how to describe can be raised as questions when you enquire.
Staging the Move Across the Hire Period
How will the move unfold across the days you have? If the hire covers more than one day, sketch which rooms or items will be dealt with first and which can wait. Note the addresses involved, including any storage facility, and the contact details for anyone receiving furniture or keys at the far end. Record the opening hours for places you need to reach, and the name and number of a contact at each. If a furniture collection from a shop or private seller forms part of the plan, note the seller's details and any collection reference. Keep a copy of the inventory with this schedule so the two stay aligned. Anything unclear about dates or vehicle suitability can be asked before you confirm the booking.
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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.