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.
Measuring bulky items first
The size of your largest item usually decides which van makes sense, so measure before enquiring rather than guessing. A wardrobe, sofa or shelving unit should be measured at its longest point, including any part that cannot be removed, such as a fixed back panel. Note the figures down and pass them to the team so they can suggest options that work for those dimensions. If an item comes apart, weigh up whether dismantling it is realistic within your timeframe, since a flat-packed frame takes up room differently from an assembled one. Also measure doorways and stair turns at both ends of the journey if you can. Sharing these numbers early helps avoid arriving at a van that simply will not take what you have.
Coordinating helpers on the day
A van moves faster when everyone involved knows their role, so arrange your helpers well in advance rather than on the morning itself. Agree a start time that gives you slack for traffic or delays, and check that each person can stay for the whole job, since a departure halfway through can slow everything down. It also helps to sort out parking arrangements at both addresses, asking whoever receives the goods where a van can reasonably stop. If a collection involves a third party, such as a seller or shop, give them the expected arrival window and a contact number. A quick conversation the day before, confirming who is coming and what they are bringing, keeps the whole move running to plan.
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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.