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.
Getting Helpers Organised
Who is helping, and when does each person arrive? That is the first question to settle once the van is booked. Build a simple list of names, phone numbers, expected arrival times and the address where each helper should meet you. If someone is only needed for part of the day, note the hours they have committed to so the plan reflects reality. Where helpers are meeting you at a destination, record a contact there along with any access details they may need to pass on. Share the sequence of tasks with everyone so nobody stands around waiting for instructions. A quick confirmation message the evening before helps catch cancellations early, and having every contact number written down means you are not searching through messages when timings change on the day.
Planning a Household Move
A household move runs on lists, so start there. Inventory each room and mark items that need dismantling, along with their measurements once taken apart. Note which boxes belong to which room at the new address, and decide whether anything will go to storage rather than the house. Record the access arrangements at both ends, including parking, entry codes or a contact who can open gates. If friends or a removal firm are handling part of the job, list what each party covers so nothing falls between them. Agree a rough order for the day, from first collection to final drop-off, and keep the confirmation details somewhere easy to reach. Questions about storage opening hours or handover times belong with the relevant contact, so gather those answers as you plan.
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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.