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 order you will unload
If you are delivering to more than one address, think through the sequence before anything goes into the van. Items destined for the final stop generally belong nearest the front, with the first drop's load positioned where it can come out without disturbing the rest. The same logic applies to a house move where certain rooms will be set up first and others can wait. Sketching the drops on paper, with a short note of what belongs where, keeps the day logical and prevents repeated handling of the same boxes. Mention the multi-stop plan when you enquire as well, since it helps the team picture the sort of access and timing your route involves. A settled order saves time at every stop.
Keeping a simple load inventory
A written inventory of what is travelling in the van proves its worth on busy days. List each item or group of boxes as it goes in, then tick things off as they come out, which is particularly helpful when several people are helping and items arrive at different addresses. For business deliveries, an inventory doubles as a record of what left with the van and what was handed over at each stop. Photograph anything fragile before it is wrapped, both for your own reference and in case a question arises afterwards. Keep the list on your phone rather than on paper left in the cab, so it stays with you throughout the day and can be checked whenever someone asks what is still on board.
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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.