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.
Moving Boxed Belongings
Start with a written inventory of every box you plan to move, numbered and labelled with the room it belongs to. Note the rough dimensions of the larger cartons and any awkward shapes, such as rolled rugs or tall lamp boxes, since these details help the team match the job to a small van, Transit or Luton where available. Record the access arrangements at both ends, including whether you will be collecting from a shop or storage unit and who to ask for on arrival. Write down the hire dates with a little flexibility noted if your move could slip a day. Keeping this list to hand means you can answer questions quickly when discussing the booking.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Think about your own schedule before finalising dates, because the pace of your move is something only you can judge. Note how long packing each room might realistically take and whether you want the van on site before boxes are sealed or after everything is ready. Record the hours when helpers are available and the contact number for anyone meeting you at the far end. Consider whether collection or return might fall outside normal opening times and flag that in your enquiry. Jot down any items still to be sold, donated or disposed of, so the final load list stays accurate. Sharing these timings and open questions with the team helps them confirm availability for the window you have in mind.
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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.