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.
Record the Dates and Your Packing Schedule
The first details to note are the hire dates and how your packing fits around them. If belongings will be boxed up over several evenings, write down when each room or set of items will be ready, and whether the van is needed for one day or across a weekend. List the larger pieces with their measurements, such as a sofa's length or a wardrobe's height, since the team will want these when discussing options. Record the access arrangements at both ends, including any restrictions you already know about. If there is a chance the schedule will slip, mention it when you ask for a quote, because a booking that reflects the real timetable is far more workable than one built on a best-case estimate.
Keep a Load Inventory as You Plan
Alongside the schedule, keep a running inventory of everything destined for the van. Group items by where they are going: one column for the new address, one for storage, one for a friend's house. Note the dimensions of anything bulky, mark which boxes contain fragile items, and record any tools or equipment that need to travel separately. If furniture will be dismantled, list the resulting pieces and their bagged fittings so nothing is assumed. This inventory is also the sheet to hand over if part of the job is a delivery to someone else, with their name and number recorded beside the relevant items. Sharing the finished list when you enquire helps the team talk through the right van for the job.
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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.