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.
Information Worth Writing Down First
Before you contact the team, start a simple list of everything that needs to travel. Note each item, roughly how many boxes or bags are involved, and whether anything is awkwardly shaped or fragile. Write down the hire dates, including the time you hope to collect and return the van, plus any access arrangements at both ends such as parking restrictions, gate widths or whether a permit is needed. If the job is a furniture collection, record the shop or seller's reference number and their opening hours. Keeping this information in one place means you can answer the team's questions quickly, and it helps you spot gaps in your own plans before the hire is confirmed.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends, family or colleagues have offered to help, it is sensible to confirm their availability before the hire dates are fixed rather than afterwards. Write down who has agreed to come, what time each person can start, and how long they can stay, since helpers with limited windows may shape the order of your day. Make a note of contact numbers for everyone involved so you can send updates if timings change, and agree in advance how you will let them know the collection address. If a helper cancels, decide whether the job can still go ahead or whether new dates would work better, and mention any such constraints when you ask about van availability so the team can advise accordingly.
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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.