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.
Listing Your Boxed Belongings
Start by writing down every boxed item you intend to move, room by room, before you contact the hire team. A simple list might note the number of boxes from each room, which ones hold fragile contents and which need to stay accessible during the journey. If some boxes are still being packed, estimate the count and update the figure as the date approaches. You may also want to label each box with its destination room at the new address, since that record helps whoever sorts items on arrival. Once the list is complete, share it with the team along with your dates and access arrangements, and ask any questions you still have about vehicle options. An accurate tally gives them something concrete to work from when responding to your enquiry.
Measuring Entrances and Large Items
Alongside your box count, take a tape measure to the bulky pieces and note the height, width and depth of each one, including any parts that stick out such as handles or feet. Record the dimensions of doorways, corridors, stairwells and lift openings at both ends of the move if you can, since the people at each address are best placed to answer questions about them. Photographing awkward pieces can help too, giving the team a visual reference alongside the numbers. If an item comes apart into sections, say so when you enquire. You might also ask whether anything on your list raises questions about the vehicle you have in mind, and note the answers so the details are all in one place 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.