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.
Comparing one trip with several
Deciding between one larger van for a single run or several trips in a smaller vehicle is a genuine choice, and the answer depends on what you write down. List every item with its dimensions, count the boxes, and note the total number of journeys you would face in a small van if you went that way. Weigh up the hire duration each option would need, since several runs may mean a longer booking, and consider whether every item must arrive on the same day. If furniture collections and storage runs are mixed together, mark which items belong to which job. Put both scenarios to the team with your dates and access arrangements, and ask how a Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van compares for your list where available.
Allowing time for packing
Hire periods always feel longer on paper than they do in practice, so build breathing room into your dates. If you book a van from nine until three, note how many hours the packing itself is likely to take and whether that leaves enough of the window for the drive, any waits at either end and the return of the vehicle. Record the times when helpers are available, when the storage unit or collection point opens, and when the van must be back. If the job runs across two days, say so at the enquiry stage rather than stretching a single booking on the day. Ask the team what happens if you need the van slightly longer, and keep their answer with your notes.
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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.