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.
Thinking through the unload
If you are moving items into a property, picture the unloading before the van turns up. Consider which pieces need to come off first, where they are heading inside the building, and who will be at the address to receive them. A quick conversation with whoever is on the receiving end settles the order of events and avoids items blocking the doorway. Ask them about parking or access at their end too, since that information is useful to share with the team. Planning the unload alongside the load keeps the whole move coherent rather than improvised on the doorstep.
One trip or several
When your load is on the larger side, weigh up whether a single bigger vehicle suits you better than several runs in a smaller one. A Luton may take a whole flat in one go, while a Transit might mean two or three journeys between addresses, each with its own loading and unloading time. Think about the distance involved, the hours you have available, and how many people can help at each end. Share your thinking with the team when you enquire, along with a description of the load, and they can talk through which arrangement fits your dates and your budget for the job.
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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.