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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Weighing Up One Trip Against Several
One of the first decisions to settle is whether everything goes in a single hire or across a couple of shorter bookings. To decide, list what you are moving: the number of boxes, furniture pieces with approximate dimensions, and any awkward items. Note the access arrangements at each end, since a single trip only works if the van is back within your dates. If some items could wait a week, splitting the job may change which vehicle you ask about. Write down the dates you have in mind and the addresses involved, including any recipient who needs to be contacted on the day. The team can then advise whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits, subject to availability.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Book
If your move is mostly boxed belongings, a written inventory is worth ten minutes of preparation. Number each box, note which room it came from, and record anything fragile so you can describe it accurately when asking for a quote. Measuring your largest boxes and stating how many you have lets the team judge whether a small van or something larger is the right match. Where the boxes are going matters too: if a friend or a storage facility is receiving them, note their contact details and any opening hours you have been given. Questions about whether a destination can accept deliveries belong with that destination, not the hire team. Once your list, dates and access notes are together, you have everything needed for a clear quote request.
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Things to check 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.