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.
Sketching Out Your Unloading Order
If you are making several stops on hire day, it can help to sketch the order on paper before you contact the team. Note which items come off at each address and roughly where each one is going once it leaves the van. If a sofa is destined for a first-floor room at one stop and boxes for a garage at another, writing that down keeps the whole day clear in your head. You might also record which pieces belong to which recipient and whether anyone will be expecting them. Any questions about access at each address, such as gates, doorways or parking, are best put to the people at those addresses rather than assumed. Bring your notes when you ask for a quote.
Keeping a Simple Load Inventory
A written inventory of everything going on the van is worth preparing in advance, even for a small job. List each item, count boxes rather than guessing, and note the approximate dimensions of anything awkward such as wardrobes, mattresses or flat-pack units. If you have a bag or box count, record that too. Where items are fragile or unusually shaped, a short note beside the entry gives the team the full picture of the job when you enquire. You could also photograph larger pieces if measurements are hard to take. Once your list is complete, send it with your dates and access details when requesting a quote, and keep a copy for yourself on the day so you can tick items off as they are delivered or collected.
Explore other van hire areas
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.