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.
Allowing time for packing and loading
Work out your timing before you commit to hire hours, because loading almost always takes longer than expected. If you are emptying a flat, consider how many boxes you have, how long dismantling furniture might take, and whether you need to wait for keys at the other end. Building in spare time on both the collection and drop-off sides of the day reduces pressure if anything runs late. It also helps to tell whoever is receiving your items when you expect to arrive, so they can plan to be present. Sharing your schedule with the hire team lets them talk through the duration that suits the job.
Keeping a load inventory
A simple written list of everything going into the van pays dividends on any move or delivery job. Note each item as it is loaded, from large furniture down to small bags and loose items, so nothing is left behind in a hallway or a storage unit. The same list helps at the destination, where you can check items off as they come out. If the van will make more than one trip or drop-off, an inventory shows clearly which items belong where. Keep a copy on your phone as well as on paper, and share the list with anyone helping, so the whole job stays organised from start to finish.
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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.