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.
Arranging helpers for moving day
How many people does your move actually need? Working that out early tells you a lot about the shape of the day. Go through your largest items and consider whether each one requires a second pair of hands, then invite helpers accordingly rather than guessing. Give everyone a firm start time and an honest estimate of how long the job will take, and check they can stay for the whole window. Ask helpers to bring suitable footwear and clothing for the conditions. If a helper drops out, have a fallback plan or be prepared to adjust the schedule. Mentioning the size of your crew to the hire team also helps them advise on vehicle choice.
Moving boxed belongings with care
Boxes are the backbone of most moves, and how you prepare them affects the whole day. Use boxes of a sensible size, tape them firmly, and label each one with the room it belongs to at the destination. Keep heavier items in smaller boxes so nothing becomes unmanageable, and avoid leaving boxes half empty where they can crush in transit. Pack a separate box of essentials you will want immediately, such as kettle, tools and toiletries. Tell the team roughly how many boxes you have when you enquire, since that gives a useful steer on van size alongside furniture. A clear box count also helps you track that everything has arrived.
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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.