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.
Start With a Written Load List
Before you enquire, spend ten minutes writing down everything that needs to travel. Note each item, roughly how many there are, and whether anything is an awkward shape such as a wardrobe, a ladder or a rolled carpet. If you can, jot down approximate dimensions for the largest pieces, since length, height and width all influence which van makes sense for the job. It also helps to record which address each item is coming from and going to, particularly if you are collecting furniture from more than one place. Keep this list somewhere you can find it, because you will refer back to it when describing the job, and you can add to it as you remember things.
Think About Timing and Scheduling
Consider how many days you genuinely need the van for, and whether the work fits into one window or stretches across a weekend. If you are packing boxes in advance, decide when each room gets sorted and which items must be ready first. It can be worth asking yourself whether everything needs to move on the same day, or whether some things could wait for a second run if plans change. When you contact the team, mention your preferred dates and any flexibility around them, plus whether you might need the van longer if a collection falls through. Having a rough schedule written down makes the conversation about dates much more straightforward for everyone involved.
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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.