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.
Listing Your Boxed Belongings
The starting point for any move is a written list of what is going into boxes. Go room by room and note each container, along with a short description of its contents and its approximate dimensions if it is unusually large or small. Mark boxes that need to reach a particular destination, whether that is a new address, a storage unit or a friend's loft, and keep a running total so you can quote the number when you get in touch. If some boxes are fragile or contain documents you need on arrival, flag those separately on the list. Bring this record, together with the access arrangements and hire dates, when you ask the team about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and raise any questions then.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Why keep an inventory rather than relying on memory? A load inventory gives you a single document covering every item, boxed or loose, that the van needs to accommodate. Record furniture, appliances, bags and loose pieces, each with a note of size where it matters, and number the boxes so nothing goes unaccounted for at the far end. Add a column for the destination of each entry if the load is splitting between addresses, and include the name and phone number of whoever is receiving items at each stop. If a third party is handing over keys or opening a storage unit for you, note their contact details too. Share the inventory with your dates when requesting a quote, and ask what remains unclear.
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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.