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 lined up
How many people does the job actually need? Answer that early, because helpers are often the hardest part to arrange. Check who is free on the date, agree a meeting time and make sure everyone knows the address sequence, including where the van will be picked up and dropped off. If somebody can only come for part of the day, plan the heavier work around their availability rather than hoping it falls into place. It also helps to have a phone list in case plans change on the morning itself. Letting the team know your group size and timings means the booking fits around the people involved, not just the load.
Measuring the awkward items
Before choosing a van, walk around the items that will travel and note their height, width and depth, including anything that cannot be taken apart. Wardrobes, sofas and flat-packed boxes each behave differently, and a written list of measurements is far more useful than a guess. Note which pieces have handles, drawers or doors that stick out, and whether anything can be emptied to reduce its bulk. If some items could go in a car instead, say so, as this can change the overall plan. Passing the measurements and a short description of each piece to the team lets them advise on a vehicle that suits the load you actually have.
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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.