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.
Planning the unloading order in advance
If the van will be unloaded at more than one address, the sequence of stops shapes how the whole job runs. Before you set off, agree with everyone involved which items belong at each destination and which need to come off first, since items for the final stop are usually best kept towards the rear. Ask the recipient at each address to be ready, to confirm where the vehicle can pull in and whether there are any restrictions on the street. A quick call to each contact the day before helps you avoid waiting around with a loaded van. Working out this order in conversation with the people receiving goods keeps the day organised from start to finish.
Keeping a load inventory to hand
A simple written list of everything going into the van saves trouble at both ends of the journey. Note each item as it is loaded, along with any fragile pieces and anything belonging to a specific person or address, then use the same list to check items off as they come out. For business deliveries, an inventory also makes it straightforward to confirm with each recipient that they have received what they expected, which helps if questions arise later. Photographing the condition of valuable pieces before loading gives you a record to refer back to. Share the list with anyone helping so they can spot anything missing, and keep a copy with you rather than in the back of the vehicle.
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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.