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.
Listing boxed belongings room by room
When the job involves boxed belongings, a room-by-room list keeps everything in one place. Go through each room and note the number of boxes, their approximate sizes and any that contain fragile items, so you can describe the load accurately. Set aside the things that will not travel, and mark boxes for different destinations if some are going to storage and others to a new address. Record the hire dates you have in mind and the access arrangements at each end, such as parking or lift availability. Keep a note of which boxes you will want first at the new place. Sending the counts and dates to the team helps them suggest whether a small van, a Transit or a Luton fits the job.
Coordinating helpers on moving day
Helpers are only useful if they know when and where they are needed. List each person, the time you have asked them for and the address they should come to, then share the list in a group message so everyone sees the same plan. Note the hire dates and roughly how long you expect each stage to take, and identify one contact number for questions on the day. If somebody is providing access to a building, a storage unit or a seller's address, confirm the arrangements with them directly and record what they say. Where a helper might drop out, think about who else you could ask. Mentioning how many people will be present when you enquire can also be useful context for the team.
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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.