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.
Getting helpers lined up
How many people does your move actually need? Settling that early tells you how much you can ask of the van. Ask friends or family well ahead of the date, confirm their availability a day or two before, and give each person a rough time commitment so nobody feels the day stretching indefinitely. If the job involves items at both ends, decide who travels with the van and who meets you at the destination. Share the plan with the team when arranging the hire, particularly if the size of the crew affects the van you want, since options such as crew vans exist for exactly that situation.
Thinking through the unloading order
Unloading goes more smoothly when it has been considered before the van is packed. Agree with the people helping you which room each item belongs in, so pieces come off in an order that suits the house rather than the load. Keep essentials such as kettle, bedding and tools accessible for the end of the day. If someone at the destination is receiving goods on your behalf, ask them where they would like items placed and whether there are time constraints on the delivery. Mention the layout of the receiving property when you speak to the team, as it can influence which vehicle makes the job easiest.
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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.