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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Deciding between one trip or two
One of the first decisions to make is whether the whole job could happen in a single run or whether two shorter hires would suit better. To judge that, list everything that needs to move, note the dimensions of the bulkiest pieces, and count the boxes and bags separately. If most items are small but one wardrobe dominates the list, a Luton might cover everything at once; if the load splits naturally between weekdays, a smaller van twice could be worth asking about. Neither answer is fixed until you compare the options, so put both scenarios to the team with your dates and access arrangements, and ask which vehicle they would match to each version of the job.
Getting everyone's availability on paper
Helpers are only helpful if their availability matches the van's, so collect that information early. Ask each person which hours they can commit, whether they can bring their own vehicle for a second run, and whether they need picking up en route. Write the answers beside your item list so you can see at a glance where the gaps fall, and identify who will be the contact for the collection point if a key or code is needed. If somebody might drop out, note a backup name now rather than later. When you contact the team about a Transit, dropside, crew van or another option, mention how many helpers are involved and ask any remaining questions about the day's schedule.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.