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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Recording the Order Items Are Needed
If your deliveries or drop-offs are split across several addresses, try writing the route as a numbered list before you contact the hire team. For each stop, note the recipient's name, a phone number, and any time window they have mentioned, plus a brief description of what is being handed over. Where an item is large, measure its length, width and height and keep those figures with the entry, since dimensions often matter more than a rough guess. If a recipient needs to be rung ahead, record who is responsible for that call. Ask yourself whether any stop has particular access arrangements, and if you are unsure, that is a question for the contact at the address rather than the hire team. A clear list of this kind gives you something concrete to discuss when confirming the van and dates.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Suppose you are moving a mix of boxes, furniture and awkward pieces; in that situation a simple inventory pays for itself several times over. List each item with a short description, its condition noted if it is second-hand or borrowed, and which room or address it belongs to. Number the boxes and keep a copy of the list on your phone so you can tick items off as they reach their destination. Where something is fragile or has removable parts, write that beside the entry rather than trusting to luck. If a friend is helping at the other end, send them the list in advance so they know what to expect. When you request your quote, this inventory lets you state exactly what you need to carry, which helps the team match the job to the right van.
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Things to check 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.