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 Boxed Belongings Before You Book
What should go on paper first? A written list of every box, with its contents and rough size, gives you something to check against when comparing a small van, Transit or Luton. Number the boxes if that helps you keep track, and note which room each one came from, since that detail can be useful when you unpack at the other end. Record fragile items separately and mark any boxes that need to stay upright, purely as information for your own planning. If some belongings are staying behind or going elsewhere, say so on the list so the totals stay accurate. Once the inventory is complete, pass it with your hire dates and access arrangements to the team, and ask whether the vehicle you have in mind is available for the period you need. Questions about access at the destination belong to whoever manages that site.
Keeping a Load Inventory for the Journey
An inventory is simply a record you can refer to at each stage of the trip. Before setting out, write down every item you plan to carry, grouped by type: boxes, furniture, tools, appliances and anything loose such as bedding or cables. Note quantities and, for larger pieces, their approximate dimensions so you can talk through options with the hire team. If the job spans several runs across different dates, keep a separate sheet for each run and tick items off as they are completed. A photo of the full list on your phone works as a backup if paper goes astray. Should anything change, such as an extra wardrobe joining the collection, update the record and mention it when confirming the booking, since the original vehicle choice may need revisiting with the team.
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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.