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 What Goes Where
If you are moving a mix of furniture and boxes, a simple written inventory can settle most decisions before the van is even booked. List each item with a note of its rough dimensions, and mark which pieces belong to which room or destination. Where several addresses are involved, note the contact name and number for each drop-off so the day runs without guesswork. You might also record which items are fragile or awkwardly shaped, purely so the information is to hand when you speak to the team. Nothing here tells you how to load; it is simply about capturing the details that shape the hire. Once your list is complete, share it with the team and ask which vehicle option they would suggest for the load you have described.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
Suppose your weekend involves sailing gear, camping kit or a set of tools for a club project. Hobby equipment often comes in odd shapes, so measuring each item before enquiring gives you a clearer basis for describing the load. Note whether anything dismantles, how many separate pieces there are and whether any part is unusually long or tall. If someone at the far end needs to receive the equipment, record their contact details and any times they will be available, and ask them directly about access at their end, since they know their own gates, lanes and parking arrangements best. A few notes taken in advance usually answer most questions before the hire begins.
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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.