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.
Recording Your Boxed Belongings
Before you ask about a van, write down what the job actually involves. If you are moving boxed belongings, count the boxes, note roughly how many are large, medium or small, and record whether any are fragile or oddly shaped. You might also list the rooms they are coming from and where each group is destined, since a written breakdown gives you something to refer to when discussing vehicle options. If some items are still undecided, mark them as pending rather than guessing. Having this record ready when you enquire means the team can talk through the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van choices against your own numbers, and you can ask directly about anything you are unsure of before committing to dates.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A load inventory is simply a written account of everything you plan to carry, and preparing one before hire can settle several questions early. List each item with its approximate size, the quantity involved and any notes about condition, then keep a copy on your phone so you can update it as plans develop. If friends or colleagues are contributing items, ask them to send their own counts rather than estimating on their behalf. You might also note the contact details of whoever is receiving goods at the far end, in case timing needs to be agreed separately. When you request a quote, you can share the inventory and ask which parts of it remain uncertain, which keeps the conversation grounded in your actual list.
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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.