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.
Sorting out who is helping
Who will actually be there on the day? Settle that question early and the rest of the plan tends to follow. Make a list of everyone helping, note the hours each person can commit, and collect a mobile number for each so last-minute changes reach everyone quickly. Decide who will meet the hire team, who keeps the keys during the hire, and who is responsible for handing the van back if the main booker is unavailable. If helpers are only free at certain times, record those windows and build your schedule around them rather than assuming all-day availability. It also helps to name a backup person in case someone drops out. Sharing this list with the team when you enquire means everyone knows who to contact about the vehicle.
Setting aside enough time for packing
How much time does packing need? Work backwards from the day of the move or collection and give each stage a slot in a written timetable. If items are coming out of a loft, garage or storage unit, note when each area can be reached and who has the keys. Record what should be ready the evening before, and set a realistic point by which everything must be by the door. Build in spare hours in case a furniture collection opens late or a seller is slow to respond. When you ask for a quote, mention your intended start and finish times so the hire period can be discussed alongside them. A written schedule makes it plain whether one day is enough or whether an overnight hire is worth considering.
Explore other van hire areas
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.