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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Comparing One Trip with Several
You may be deciding between hiring a larger van for a single run or making two or three trips in a smaller vehicle. To weigh this up, list every item you expect to move, note quantities and jot down approximate dimensions for the bigger pieces such as wardrobes, sofas or rolled carpets. That list gives the team concrete information to work with when they consider whether a Transit, a Luton or another option suits the job. Consider also how much time each option allows and whether anyone is available to help at both ends on every trip. If some items are going to different addresses, note which belongs where, since several smaller runs might suit a split delivery better than one combined load. These are choices worth settling before you ask for a quote.
Coordinating Helpers
If friends or colleagues have offered to assist with your move or collection, arranging their availability in advance can spare you a scramble on the day. Make a note of who is free, when they are free and which tasks each person is happy to take on, such as meeting a seller, waiting at a storage unit or accompanying you to a delivery address. Record a contact number for each helper and share the hire dates once confirmed, along with the address where they should meet you. Where items are being handed to someone else, collect that recipient's name and number too. Questions you might still want to ask include whether the vehicle you have in mind is available across all your dates, and what access details would be useful to pass on when you contact the team.
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Last checks before booking
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.