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.
Picking a suitable van
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 what goes where
If the hire is for a move, a simple room-by-room list is one of the most useful things to prepare before you contact the team. Write down which boxes and furniture belong to which room, the full item count, and the approximate dimensions of the largest pieces, since those figures help the team discuss which vehicle options might suit. Note whether anything is being dropped at a second address, and keep a tally of items that are staying behind or being sold so the totals you give are accurate. Record the destination contact's name and number, plus any access details they have given you, such as parking or entry arrangements. Questions about access at the destination remain with that contact rather than the hire team, and any open points can be raised when you request a quote.
Keeping a load inventory
A written inventory is one of the most useful things to prepare ahead of a van booking. List every item, grouped by room or by owner, with approximate sizes for furniture and a count for boxes, bags and loose goods. Mark anything fragile or high-value so it is easy to identify later, and note items that are staying behind or being sold, since that affects the totals you give the team. If the job involves collecting from more than one place, record each address and a contact number for whoever is handing goods over. Deciding the hire dates and the preferred start time in advance also keeps the enquiry simple. Any open questions about vehicle choice or timing can be raised when you request the quote.
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Last checks 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.