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.
Scheduling Your Hire Dates Around Packing
Start by writing down the dates you would need the van, including whether the hire could run over two days if packing takes longer than expected. Next, list everything you plan to move, room by room, and note the dimensions of the bulkiest pieces so the team can consider which vehicle suits the load. If furniture might be dismantled, record that on the list too. Think about when you would collect and return the van, and whether any collection or delivery windows affect those times. Questions worth asking when you request a quote include how flexible the dates are if your plans shift, and what happens if you need the van for an extra day. The more detail you note, the more useful the team's response can be.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends or family are helping, note their names, phone numbers and the hours each person can commit, so you can plan the hire window around everyone's availability. Share your item list and the hire dates with them early, and confirm who will hold keys, meet the van at each address and sign for anything handed over at the other end. Where a third party receives goods, record their contact details and any preferred delivery window, then check with them directly about parking or access at their end. It is also worth agreeing how you will update each other on the day if timings change. When you ask for a quote, you can mention how many helpers will be involved and whether their availability limits the dates you can choose.
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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.