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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Loading boxed belongings with care
Start by jotting down how many boxes you have, roughly what sizes they are and which rooms they came from, as this gives the team a clear picture of the job. Boxed belongings stack up quickly, so an accurate count helps when matching the load against the van options on your dates. Think about which items need to come off first at the other end and keep those closest to the doors. Fragile or boxed electronics deserve a mention too, since the team can take them into account when discussing vehicle choices. If some boxes are unusually heavy or an awkward shape, describe those separately when you enquire. A clear list of what is going makes the whole conversation easier.
Keeping a load inventory to hand
A written inventory of everything in the van is one of the most useful things you can prepare before a move. List each item or box group, note which room it belongs in, and keep a copy with you during the journey. This helps you check that nothing has been left behind at either address and speeds up unloading, because everyone knows where each box is headed. Share the inventory with anyone helping at the destination so they can work through it as items come off the van. If something on the list changes at short notice, let the team know as soon as you can, since the vehicle size may be affected. An inventory also makes it simple to spot anything missing.
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Last checks before booking
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.