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.
Writing Down Dates and Packing Details
The first thing to write down is the date you plan to move or collect, followed by the latest time the job must be finished. Against those dates, list everything that will be packed: the number of boxes, their approximate sizes, and any furniture or appliances that will not fit in a box. Note the dimensions of the largest pieces, including height, and mark which items are fragile. Record where each item is going, whether that is a new address, a storage unit or a customer's premises, and keep the recipient's name and phone number with your notes. If packing will take longer than a single evening, allow for that when choosing your hire dates, and share the full list when you ask for a quote.
Coordinating People Who Are Helping
If friends or family have offered to help, a little coordination keeps everyone working from the same page. Confirm who is available on which date, and note the hours each person can commit, since helpers with limited time may need to be scheduled around the bulkiest items. Record a contact number for every helper and agree in advance where they should meet you, whether that is your home or the destination. Ask the person receiving goods at the other end for their number too, and note any time window they have specified. Decide whether you need the van for one day or longer, and mention the size of your helper group when you enquire, since a crew van may be worth asking about.
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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.