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.
Planning the Dates Around Your Move
A little scheduling work before you enquire saves confusion later. Sketch out the sequence of your hire period, starting with the moment the vehicle would first be needed and ending when the last item should be dropped off. Think about how loading and unloading fit between those points, and allow breathing space rather than packing every hour with tasks. If a supplier, charity shop or council site expects you at a particular time, jot the details down early so they shape your request rather than complicate it. It also pays to think about who needs to be contacted if timings slip, and to have those numbers ready. Pass the outline to the hire team with your dates, and mention any constraints you are unsure about so they can talk them through with you.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Knowing exactly what has to travel makes choosing a van far easier. Sit down with a notepad and walk through each space in the property mentally, writing down the bulky pieces first and then the smaller possessions gathered around them. Estimate roughly how big each item is, and think about whether anything refuses to come apart, since rigid objects often dictate the vehicle you need rather than the other way round. Tag parcels and furniture with where they are headed, particularly when a single journey covers more than one drop-off point. It is worth capturing the state of fragile or worn pieces before they leave, so any dispute later has something to refer back to. Hand your finished list over when you ask about a van, and let the team weigh in on whether the plan sounds workable for the vehicle you have in mind.
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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.