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.
Deciding what comes off the van first
If you are moving a household, spend a few minutes deciding which items you want inside the new property on the first evening. Kettle, bedding, toiletries and a box of basics usually top that list, so make sure they are identifiable and set apart from the rest. Walk through the rooms at the destination in your mind and group your possessions accordingly, keeping kitchen items together and bedroom items together. Tell everyone helping at the other end which boxes and furniture belong in which room, ideally with labels they can read at a glance. If something is going to a different address entirely, such as a family member or a storage unit, keep it separate from the main load. A clear order agreed in advance makes the unloading end far quicker.
Moving hobby and leisure equipment
Equipment for hobbies often has awkward shapes that deserve a bit of thought before hire day. Tally up what you plan to transport, whether that is camping gear, bicycles, musical instruments, diving kit or garden machinery, and note the bulkiest pieces with their rough dimensions. Consider what needs protecting from knocks during the journey and pack blankets, straps or padding accordingly. If any item is particularly long or tall, mention it when you enquire so the team can discuss which vehicles could accommodate it. Think about whether equipment is being collected, returned or moved permanently, as this affects the timing and any help you might want at either end. Describing your load accurately helps the team point you towards the right van 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.