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 Smoothly
Before you enquire, write down how many boxes you expect, their rough sizes and whether any are awkwardly shaped. A simple count, such as twelve medium boxes and four large ones, gives the team something concrete to work with when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Note which items are fragile or need particular care, and whether anything is being collected from a shop, a seller or a storage unit. If some belongings could follow in a second load on another date, mention that option, since it may affect the vehicle you choose and the hire dates you request. Any question about whether a destination can accept a delivery belongs with the destination contact.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory is one of the most useful things you can prepare before a move or delivery job. List each item with a short description, its approximate dimensions and any quantity, then keep the list with you on the day so you can tick things off as they travel. For furniture collections, note whether items come apart and whether the seller has provided measurements. For storage runs, record which unit things are going to or from. Sharing this inventory when you enquire helps the team understand the access arrangements and the scale of the job. You might also ask which van types are available on your dates and whether anything in your list needs separate consideration.
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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.