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.
Arranging help for loading day
Who will actually be there on the day? Working out your helpers in advance tells you how long loading and unloading are likely to take, which in turn shapes how many hours of hire you need. Ask each person to commit to a specific arrival time rather than a vague promise, and let them know where the van will be parked and what they will be moving. If a friend drops out, consider whether the remaining helpers can still manage the largest items or whether the plan needs adjusting. Give everyone the address of the destination too, so helpers can make their own way back if they are not riding along in the van.
Sequencing a household move
A move goes more smoothly when you decide the order of events before the van arrives. Choose which rooms to empty first and which boxes go into the new house earliest, usually the ones containing essentials for the first night. Label boxes by room so helpers can place them correctly without asking, and keep a separate bag for documents, keys and chargers that stays with you. Tell the people receiving the van at the far end which items are heaviest or most awkward, so they can prepare space in advance. A short conversation with everyone involved, covering times, addresses and the order of unloading, keeps the whole day coordinated.
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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.